Christmas Eve Tragedy: DJ Shot Dead Over Music Dispute in Mpumalanga Tavern
Masoyi, Mpumalanga – A 33-year-old disc jockey (DJ) was fatally shot by a patron at a tavern in Mganduzweni Trust, near White River, on Christmas Eve after he stopped playing music. The alleged shooter, a 28-year-old man, then turned the firearm on himself, resulting in his own death.
The incident unfolded at approximately 11.30pm on Wednesday, as police in Masoyi were conducting a festive season operation. According to police spokesperson, Brig Donald Mdhluli, officers came across a large group of people exiting the tavern.
Sensing something amiss, the police stopped to investigate the mass exodus. Upon entering the tavern, they discovered that a shooting had occurred inside, Mdhluli confirmed.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the tragic event transpired after the DJ, who had been providing entertainment for the tavern patrons, ceased playing music and began packing up his equipment.
"The patrons are said to have insisted that he should continue playing the music because it was Christmas time," Mdhluli stated.
However, the DJ reportedly resisted their demands, explaining that it was time for the tavern to close for the night. Despite his attempts to reason with the patrons, tensions escalated between him and one of the patrons. The 28-year-old man allegedly drew a firearm and shot the DJ. He then turned the gun on himself, Mdhluli said.
"Medical personnel were summoned to the scene and unfortunately certified both individuals dead," Mdhluli added.
The police have opened a murder case, as well as an inquest into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have confirmed that the tavern in question was licensed to operate. However, the firearm used in the shooting has not yet been recovered by police.
In the wake of this tragedy, Acting Mpumalanga police commissioner, Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi, has called for a thorough and extensive investigation to determine how an individual with a firearm was permitted entry into the licensed premises.
"The increase in shooting incidents within liquor premises is alarming and detrimental to our society," Mkhwanazi stated. "It is very crucial that tavern owners take their responsibility to ensure safety of their patrons and employees. Failure to comply with safety regulations carries legal consequences for the owners. A life has been lost here, and we cannot allow such tragic incident without consequences."
Mkhwanazi emphasised the importance of tavern owners adhering to safety regulations to prevent future incidents of this nature. He stressed that the safety of patrons and employees should be paramount, and any negligence in this regard would be met with legal action. The investigation aims to uncover any breaches of security protocols that may have contributed to the tragic outcome. The police are also appealing to anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the firearm to come forward and assist with the investigation.
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