Rising Football Star Luke Fleurs Shot Dead

South African footballer Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life in a car hijacking last night in Johannesburg. The 24-year-old Kaizer Chiefs player was at a petrol station when he was confronted by gunmen who demanded him to leave his vehicle behind.

Sadly, the gang shot him before fleeing with his car. Kaizer Chiefs expressed deep sadness over his death and police are investigating the sad incident.

“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. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time. The SAPS are handling the matter and further details will be communicated in due course. May his dear soul rest in peace.”

South Africa Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa expressed deep sadness over the loss of another young life to violent crime.

Before his untimely death, Fleurs represented South Africa at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 as part of the Under-23 team.

Although he had not made his debut for the senior national team yet, Fleurs was on the brink of doing so. Described by Kaizer Chiefs as a talented defender with excellent skills, Fleurs began his career in 2013 at the Ubuntu Cape Town Academy.

On 26 October 2023, Fleurs joined fellow Premiership side Kaizer Chiefs, signing a two-year contract with an option for a further year. Fleurs represented South Africa at under-20 level. He was called up for the Bafana Bafana in 2021 and 2022 without receiving a cap.

In honor of his memory, the Premier Soccer League announced that a moment of silence will be observed at all top-flight and second-tier games this weekend.