Tragedy struck the football world as former South Africa junior international, Luke Fleurs, lost his life to the colds hands of death following a carjacking incident in Johannesburg.
The 24-year-old defender for Kaizer Chiefs was shot in the chest at a gas station on Wednesday night by assailants who drove off with his vehicle.
The news sent shockwaves through the football community, with condolences pouring in from all corners.
Fleurs, who represented South Africa at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021, was known for his talent and dedication to the sport.
Despite not making an appearance in the senior team, he had a promising career ahead of him.
His death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers faced by many in South Africa, where carjackings and violent crimes have become a common occurrence.
The Carjacking menace in South Africa
Carjacking is a significant problem in South Africa, where it is called hijacking, the country is believed to have the highest carjacking rate in the world, a popular menace in the African nation.
Some of the most hijacked cars in South Africa include The Toyota Fortuner (GD6 and D4D), Hilux (GD6 and D4D), Corolla Cross and RAV 4; VW Polo (especially hatchbacks); Nissan NP 200; and Ford Ranger (double and single cabs).
Some 5,973 hijacking cases were reported from October to December in 2023, the latest official crime statistics show.
Luke Fleurs is the latest among thousands of people who fell victim to fatal hijackings in the country, which has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
Born in Cape Town, Fleurs made his mark in professional football at a young age, making his National First Division debut at just 17.
The late South African went on to play for SuperSport United before joining Kaizer Chiefs in 2023.
In his first full season as a SuperSport player, he played just a single game, while the following season he was allowed to play with the first team and he made about 14 appearances for SuperSport United, scoring 2 goals that campaign.
In subsequent years, Fleurs improved and became a strong influence in the team. Before switching to Kaizer Chiefs, he made a total of 70 appearances for SuperSport United.
His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, will be remembered fondly by his teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Kaizer Chiefs mourns death of Luke Fleurs
“It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce that Kaizer Chiefs player, Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg.” Kaizer Chiefs stated in a statement on their X page.
Luke Fleurs made 72 club career appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing no assist in all competitions.
Zizi Kodowa, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, also expressed that he was “saddened that yet another life has been cut short due to violent crimes”.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time,” police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, told reporters.
Masondo also confirmed that no arrests had been made at the time of filing this report.
As the South African Police Service continues to investigate the incident, the South African football community mourns the loss of one of its own.
Fleurs may have been taken from the world too soon, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. Rest in peace, Luke.
