A week after a Pietermaritzburg man went on a shooting rampage, killing one of his relatives and injuring two others, the survivors have forgiven him.
Natalie Singh, 41, and her mother Neela Naidoo, 68, were shot in the legs while Natalie’s husband Akesh, 43, a retail customer officer, was shot in the head, chest and shoulder. He died at St Anne’s Hospital last Friday.
Singh and Naidoo have been discharged from hospital.
The relative, the alleged shooter, is still on the run from police.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Pastor Celvan Pakkari from the River of Life Ministries, said the shooting was sparked by an argument.
“The relative had come home intoxicated and started verbally abusing Natalie.
“Akesh took him into his bedroom and tried to pacify him. Akesh left him in the room and went into the kitchen.
“The accused, however, returned to the lounge, where Natalie and Neela had been seated, with his firearm.”
Pakkari said that in full view of Natalie Singh’s two young children, the man opened fire on the women. He then proceeded to the kitchen where he shot Akesh.
“While the children ran for cover, the relative fled the scene. Neighbours who heard the gunshots called police and ambulance services for assistance.”
Pakkari described Akesh as a good man.
“He was mild tempered and loved people. He was committed in his beliefs and a senior leader in our church.”
Pakkari said the family were concerned about their safety.
“We are rallying around them to lend our support. This is a traumatic time and we have provided counselling for the family, especially the children.
“Natalie is being very strong, and while she has forgiven him, she understands justice must take its course.”
He said it was the family’s faith and belief in God that had given them the strength to forgive.
Police spokeswoman Lieutenant Nqobile Gwala said no arrests had been made and a case of murder and attempted murder had been opened at Mountain Rise Police Station.
“Anyone with positive information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect may contact the SAPS Mountain Rise police on 079 500 1269.”