Cape Town - A 16-year-old schoolgirl’s life was brutally cut short when she was gunned down allegedly by gangsters in Hanover Park.
Family members say Octavia Johanessen had gone to a nearby tuckshop and was on her way to her aunt, who lives in Howick Court, when gunmen opened fire just after 9pm on Monday.
It is believed the teen tried to run from the gunfire but was hit by a stray bullet.
The girl was found lying face down on her stomach on the pavement and emergency personnel tried to save her life. Sadly, she died on the scene.
On Tuesday scores of classmates and teachers from Crystal High School visited the family to pay their condolences. Octavia was in Grade 9.
Teacher Ashraf Cerfontyne says Octavia’s death has rocked the school, and everyone wanted to come to pay their last respects.
Teacher Ashraf Cerfontyne consoles Octavia's sister Ashca. Picture: Jack Lestrade/ANA Pictures
“She had such a joy about her,” said the teacher.
“She always had a smile on her face. Like today, you can see everyone that is here, teachers and pupils, the entire school wanted to come to her home today.”
Ashca Johanessen, who was consoled by friends, told Daily Voice she doesn’t know why her sister had gone to the shop.
“She had been at the shop and was on her way to our aunty in Howick Court when she was shot. We don’t know what she had bought,” she says.
Other family members were too distraught to speak.
Octavia’s best friend, 16, who asked not to be identified, says the teen had dreams to travel and study one day.
“She always spoke of travelling to the USA and had dreams to travel and work,” the teen said before bursting into a flood of tears.
Police spokesperson, Sinati Joni says cops have made no arrests.
“A murder case has been registered after a 16-year-old girl was fatally wounded during a shooting incident that took place in Hanover Park. No arrests have been made at this stage.”
Meanwhile, Jessica Shelver, spokesperson for Education MEC Debbie Shafer, says counselling has been provided for the schooling body: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the senseless and tragic passing of Octavia Johanessen. Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, friends and school community. Counselling is being provided at the school.”