The Department of Arts and Culture on Thursday confirmed the "tragic" passing of Rhythm City actor Dumi Masilela.
According to Jacaranda FM, police spokesperson Kay Makhubele said "while driving, Masilela and his friend were blocked off and shot at" in an alleged attempted hijacking on Wednesday night.
The 29-year-old actor reportedly fought for his life in a Johannesburg hospital before succumbing to his injuries on Wednesday night.
IOL Entertainment contacted e.tv and they released this statement: "It is with great sadness that e.tv confirms the passing of Dumi Masilela. He passed in a hijacking on Wednesday 2 August. Dumi played the role of Sfiso on Rhythm City for the past 5 years. e.tv sends their condolences to Dumi’s family, friends and Rhythm City colleagues."
The Department of Arts and Culture took to Twitter to express its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Rhythm City actor, Dumi Masilela.
We send our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Rhythm City Actor Dumi Masilela, who has reportedly passed on. pic.twitter.com/edsg8I9LHu
— Arts & Culture (@ArtsCultureSA) August 3, 2017
After the news of his passing broke, tributes flooded Twitter as fans paid tribute to young actor's and expressed anger at his senseless death.
Imagine finding your soul mate. Get married. Try and start a life together. Then this happens. The devil works overtime aisuka #dumimasilela
— Mama Sihle (@Hlengz_) August 3, 2017 I'm broken by the news of #dumimasilela. I feel for Simphiwe. She just buried her dad in just a yr ago. Then this
— Mzilikazi (@ChiefMzilikazi) August 3, 2017 I'd like to express my deepest sympathy for the loss of Dumi. I hope that ur wonderful memories of him will bring you comfort #dumimasilela pic.twitter.com/Y6g9sOb0iZ
— Masetshaba Motsepe (@MissMotsepe) August 3, 2017 Sad news, violent crime is on the rise in every part of SA & the minister of police is obsessed with the "red carpet". R.I.P #DumiMasilela.
— Charlie Langa (@CharlieLanga) August 3, 2017 Dumi recently married to former 'Muvhango' actress Simphiwe Ngema in a star-studded traditional wedding.
A car accident sidelined Masilela's professional soccer career several years ago. After more than three years of rehabilitation, he carved out a career in TV.
Masilela played the role of Sifiso Ngema on the popular e.tv soapie.