Westbury Tragedy: Two Teenagers Killed, Five Injured in Suspected Gang-Related Shooting

A community in Westbury, Johannesburg, has been left reeling after a mass shooting claimed the lives of two teenagers and left five others injured in what police believe to be a gang-related attack.

According to police reports, the victims — all between the ages of 14 and 19 — were ambushed by three armed suspects allegedly linked to a rival gang. The brutal attack unfolded late on Monday evening, plunging the already troubled suburb into renewed fear and outrage over the persistent scourge of gang violence that has plagued the area for years.

Authorities confirmed that the seven teenagers were standing on a street corner when gunmen opened fire, spraying the group with bullets before fleeing the scene. Two of the victims succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while the remaining five were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment.

Police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said investigations are underway to track down the perpetrators. “It is reported that the six, aged between 14 and 19, were shot at by three suspects believed to be from a rival gang. Two victims were declared dead at the scene, and the others were taken to hospital for treatment,” said Masondo.

The attack has reignited calls for greater police presence and urgent government intervention in Westbury, an area long known for gang turf wars and frequent shootings. Community members say they are living in fear, with many describing the situation as “a war zone.”

Residents told reporters that gunfire has become a nightly occurrence, and young people are increasingly being drawn into gang activity due to unemployment, poverty, and lack of recreational opportunities. “We are losing our children every week,” said a distraught resident. “These gangs control our streets. The police come after the shooting — never before.”

Community activists have called on law enforcement to step up patrols and establish specialized anti-gang units in the area. They also urged the City of Johannesburg and provincial authorities to address the root causes of youth involvement in gang culture, including substance abuse, unemployment, and lack of education support.

Local councillor Nicky Mhlongo expressed condolences to the bereaved families and condemned the ongoing violence. “It’s heartbreaking to see young lives lost to senseless killings,” she said. “We need urgent action — more visibility from the police, and real programs that can keep our youth away from gangs.”

Meanwhile, police have appealed to anyone with information about the suspects to come forward. Anonymous tips can be reported via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submitted through the MySAPS mobile app.

As Westbury mourns yet another tragic loss, residents are demanding justice and a long-term solution to end the cycle of bloodshed that has stolen too many young lives.