A 31-year-old man was shot dead outside a sneaker shop in Wittebome after an unknown gunman opened fire on him and the shop owner on Tuesday morning.
The attack happened outside Unwanted Kickz in Exeter Road at about 11.58am, as the two friends sat outside the business.
The 36-year-old man, who owns the shop, ran inside when the shooting started. His friend tried to escape by running into the street, but was struck by several bullets and later died at the scene.
Wynberg detectives are now investigating a murder and attempted murder case. No arrest has been made, and police have not established why the two men were targeted.
Western Cape police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala confirmed that the suspect fled after the shooting.
“This office confirms that Wynberg detectives are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder, following a shooting incident outside a sneaker shop in Exeter Road, Wittebome on Tuesday 25 August 2026 at about 11.58am.
"According to reports, a 36-year-old male who is the owner of the sneaker shop was sitting outside with his friend when an unknown male came and opened fire at both of them. The 36-year-old ran inside the shop while his 31-year-old friend ran to the street. The 31-year-old sustained multiple gunshot wounds on his stomach and he succumbed to the injuries at the scene.
"The motive for the attack is a subject of police investigation and no arrest has been effected at this stage.”
Gunfire Near The Station
The shooting unfolded close to Wittebome railway station, where commuters were waiting for a train.
An eyewitness said she had been at the station waiting for the 12.32pm train when she heard the gunshots. She said the sound came just minutes before the train arrived and that people immediately began running from the entrance.
“Today while minding my business I was at Wittebome station waiting for the 12.32pm train.
"Then the gunshots happened 2 to 3 minutes before. Mind you, I only saw people running away from the entrance fearing for their lives.
"I had earpods with loud music on. Only to realise the gunman/men are on foot shooting in the street. Shot someone at close range. It was scary, I won't lie. The train came at 12.36pm. Those few minutes just felt so unsafe.”
The account provides a glimpse of the confusion in the moments after the shooting, as people near the station tried to move away from the area. The eyewitness said she had been listening to music and initially did not realise what was happening around her.
Police have not confirmed how many people were involved in the attack. Their statement refers to an unknown male who opened fire, while the eyewitness described seeing a gunman or gunmen on foot.
Police Probe Continues
Investigators are expected to examine the scene, gather witness statements and establish the movements of the suspect before and after the shooting.
The shop owner survived the attack after reaching the safety of his business. Police have not released details about whether he was injured during the incident.
The 31-year-old victim’s identity has not been released. His death has left investigators with the task of establishing whether the shooting was linked to a personal dispute, a business-related matter or another motive. Police have not publicly confirmed any possible explanation, and the motive remains under investigation.
The shooting also happened during the late-morning period, when commuters and residents were moving through the area. The eyewitness said the few minutes between the gunfire and the arrival of the train felt unsafe, with people running away from the entrance.
Wynberg police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the attack or who may have information about the suspect to come forward. People who were in Exeter Road, near the shop or at Wittebome station around the time of the shooting may have information that could assist the investigation.
They are also being asked to share any relevant information about the suspect’s movements without confronting anyone they believe may be involved.
The police investigation remains active as detectives work to determine exactly what happened outside the shop and why the two friends came under attack.
The attempted murder charge relates to the 36-year-old shop owner, who escaped by running inside the sneaker store. The murder charge relates to his 31-year-old friend, who was fatally wounded while trying to get away from the gunfire.
Anyone with information can contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information may also be submitted anonymously through the MySAPS mobile application.
At this stage, the suspect remains at large, the motive has not been established and the investigation continues.
