Cape Town - A matriculant died two days before he could write his final exam when he was killed in gang crossfire at the weekend.
The tragic death of the innocent teen, who is a pupil at Mondale High School, has shocked his schoolmates, teachers and community at large.
On Saturday night, Abdul Mutalib Alexander, 19, from Lentegeur went with a group of friends to buy a gatsby, but it would be the last walk he would ever take.
The takeaways is not far from his family’s home.
The boy had been studying for his matric exams, which started on Monday.
Police say in Salvia Street, suspects in a white VW Golf opened fire on another group of young men, catching the schoolboys in the crossfire.
Mogamat Wilton, 43, from Lentegeur says the group of scared boys tried to dodge the gunfire, but the shooter kept firing in their direction.
Abdul Mutalib was shot multiple times but was still alive. Another boy, 18, was shot in the hand.
He was rushed to hospital where he died a few hours later.
Mogamat adds: “He never had a chance to run anywhere. These boys are known in the neighbourhood, they are such good boys. It's very sad what happened to him. I heard he died at the hospital. Sy arme mense is sieke ge-stress.”
Learners at Mondale High are said to be in “absolute shock”. Abdul Mutalib was known as a kind, courteous young man.
His distraught family yesterday confirmed he had gone out to buy a gatsby when he was shot, but were too traumatised to speak.
Director of Communications for the Western Cape Education Department, Paddy Attwell, said the school was in mourning.
“Abdul’s death is utterly tragic. The school asked Grade 12 learners to gather at the school yesterday. District officials were at the school to provide counselling. Staff were informed that they could seek support from our employee wellness programme.
“Our thoughts are with Abdul’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Police spokesman Captain FC van Wyk confirms the incident and says: “The motive is unknown. No persons have been arrested. Police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.”
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Marlin van Neel on 082 411 2382.