Footballer Luke Fleurs shot dead in carjacking aged 24

Horrific news just in.

The defender, who played for Kaizer Chiefs, was shot dead in Johannesburg.

In a statement from the club, they wrote: "It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce that Kaizer Chiefs player, Luke Fleurs, tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time. The SAPS are handling the matter and further details will be communicated in due course. May his dear soul rest in peace."

It's been reported that the shooting took place at a petrol station in the Florida area of the city on Wednesday night.

While waiting to be attended to, Fleurs was approached by gunmen who demanded that he hand over his vehicle.

The gunmen then shot him before fleeing the scene.

Gauteng Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo explained: "The suspects pointed [at] him with a firearm and took him out of his vehicle, then shot him once on the upper body."

Masondo added more context, saying: “While waiting to be served by the petrol attendant, he was confronted by two armed males who came driving a white BMW 1 Series.

“The suspects pointed him with a firearm and took him out of his vehicle, then shot him once on the upper body. One suspect drove off with the victim's car followed by his accomplice.”

He was rushed to the nearest medical centre but was declared dead on arrival.

Police have opened an investigation into the killing with a group of seasoned detectives on the case.

At the time of writing, no arrests have been made. Fleurs began his career with Ubuntu Cape Town before spending five years at SuperSport United.

Last year, Fleurs joined Kaizer Chiefs and made a number of appearances at youth level in the South African national team set up as well as representing them in the Olympics.

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