Police have launched a manhunt for gunmen who killed three people, including a nine-month-old baby, in a shocking shooting in Athlone, Cape Town.
The brutal attack happened at Sunbird Court on Tuesday night, 17 February 2026, at around 10pm.
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Police spokesman Colonel Andre Traut said officers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire.
“On Tuesday, 17 February 2026 at approximately 10pm, police responded to reports of a shooting at Sunbird Court in Athlone,” he said.
When the police arrived, they found a horrifying scene.
“Upon arrival, officers found the bodies of two women aged 25 and 36, as well as a nine-month-old baby, who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds,” said Traut.
Two adult men were also shot during the attack but survived.
“Two adult males were also shot and injured during the incident and were transported to a medical facility for treatment,” he said.
Police said the suspects fled the scene and remain on the run.
“Preliminary information indicates that three unknown suspects fled the scene and have not yet been arrested,” said Traut.
He said that the motive for the shooting is still unclear.
Traut said detectives from the serious and violent crimes unit are leading the investigation.
“All available resources have been mobilised to trace and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime,” he said.
Traut condemned the killings and promised justice.
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“The SAPS unequivocally condemns violent crimes, and we assure the residents of Athlone and the broader community that every effort will be made to bring the perpetrators to book,” he said.
The police are urging anyone with information to contact CrimeStop or use the MySAPS app anonymously.
