Cape Town – Tyrone Philander, the younger brother of former Proteas star Vernon Philander, was shot dead in Ravensmead around lunchtime on Wednesday.
Western Cape police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that police are investigating a murder case after a shooting incident at about 1.10pm on the corners of 7th Avenue and Webner Street in Ravensmead, where a 32-year-old man was shot and fatally wounded.
In a statement issued late on Wednesday, Vernon Philander thanked everyone who offered their condolences and messages of support for the family – especially members of the public.
“Our family is coming to terms with the brutal murder in my hometown of Ravensmead earlier today. I would like to ask that the family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time,” he said.
“The murder is now the subject of a police investigation and we respectfully ask that the media give the police the space to conduct a thorough investigation. There are no details around the incident at the moment and speculation will make it very difficult for us as a family to mourn in peace.
“Tyrone is forever in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace.”
Tyrone was reportedly transporting a trolley with water to a neighbour when he was shot. An African News Agency (ANA) reporter said his distraught mother Bonita, accompanied by a family member, watched in horror as her son's body lay in the street.
Condolences poured in on social media for the deceased, with Ravensmead residents insisting he had not been involved with gangs. Vernon Philander has two other brothers, Brandon and Darryl.
’’Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation. Anyone with any information about this fatal shooting incident is kindly requested to contact the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Nyameko Mnqayi 079 894 1278/ 021 933 9000 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111,’’ Van Wyk said.
IOL