A naval officer has appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court for murder, following the fatal shooting of a relative.
Image: File
A family argument that turned deadly has destroyed the lives of all involved after an active member of the South African Navy has been charged with murder in Cape Town.
Mikhail John, 25, appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court for the murder of his father-in-law, a member of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) in Bradley Road, Elfindale.
According to a source, John allegedly shot his father-in-law seven times, three times in the face and four in the abdominal area after an argument between the two on Thursday, November 28.
This is after John had a fallout with his wife who called her father to collect her.
Western Cape police spokesperson, Captain Frederick van Wyk confirmed Steenberg police were investigating a case of murder.
“Steenberg police registered a murder case following a shooting incident on November 28, 2024, at about 3.05pm at a premises in Bradley Road, Elfindale, where a 47-year-old man was shot and fatally wounded,” Van Wyk said.
Police said the father-in-law was declared dead at the scene.
“According to reports, SAPS members on duty attended to a complaint of a shooting in progress at the mentioned address. Upon arrival, they found the body of a 47-year-old male lying next to a vehicle on the premises with several gunshot wounds to the head and upper body.
"He was declared dead on the scene by medical personnel. It is alleged the deceased was with his daughter on the premises when the suspect entered the premises and shot him,” Van Wyk said.
A pistol was also recovered from the scene.
“The motive for this incident is believed to be domestic violence related. A Baretta 9mm pistol with ammunition was confiscated and handed in as an exhibit. A 25-year-old male was arrested and charged with murder and appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court,” Van Wyk said.
After a brief appearance, John was remanded in custody and the matter has been postponed until further investigation and for bail information.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
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