82-Year-Old Man Dies at Durbanville Gun Store Shooting Range
An 82-year-old man has died inside the indoor shooting range of a Cape Town gun store after allegedly shooting himself shortly after purchasing ammunition.
The incident took place last Thursday at Dave Sheer Guns, located at the Groot Phesantekraal View Shopping Centre in Durbanville.
Inquest Opened
Western Cape police confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said:
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation. Investigations continue.”
An inquest is conducted to determine the cause and circumstances of an unnatural death and whether any criminal conduct was involved.
Purchased Ammunition Before Incident
An employee at the shopping centre with knowledge of the incident said the man had been a first-time customer at the store.
According to the employee, the man brought his own licensed firearm and purchased three cartridges before proceeding to the indoor shooting range.
He was reportedly alone inside the range at the time.
Staff members became concerned after hearing a loud gunshot followed by silence. When they went to investigate, they found the man deceased.
“Unfortunately, the deceased came with intentions,” the employee said.
Store Reopened After Police Investigation
Police processed the scene and completed their initial investigation before the store reopened for business.
A senior staff member at the dealership, who was not authorised to speak publicly, dismissed speculation that the death was the result of negligence or a hostage situation.
“There is a police inquest,” the staff member said. “There was no negligence on our part.”
Dave Sheer Guns opened at the shopping centre in August 2025 and is expected to mark its first anniversary next month. It is understood that this is the first fatal incident reported at the store.
The investigation remains ongoing.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In South Africa, you can contact:
- SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
- Lifeline: 0861 322 322
- Emergency services: 10111
You are not alone, and support is available.
