A deadly mass shooting rocked the Bridgetown area of Athlone late Tuesday night, leaving three people — including a baby — dead and two others seriously injured.
According to the FACSA Incident Report, the violence unfolded at approximately 22:49 on 17 February 2026 at Sunbird Court in Bridgetown, Athlone. Emergency services responding to reports of gunfire discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Authorities confirmed that five people were shot during the incident. Tragically, three victims — two adult females and one infant — were declared Code Blue at the scene, indicating no signs of life. Two adult men who were also struck by gunfire were stabilized and transported to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment. Their current conditions have not yet been publicly disclosed.
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), along with paramedics, secured the area and launched an immediate investigation. Forensic teams combed the scene for evidence while detectives canvassed residents for witnesses and surveillance footage that could help identify the perpetrators.
Officials have not yet confirmed a motive, and no arrests have been announced. Investigators are exploring multiple possibilities, including whether the attack was targeted or linked to ongoing gang activity in the area.
Residents reported hearing multiple rapid gunshots, followed by emergency sirens as police and ambulances flooded the neighborhood. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
The incident has left the community shaken, particularly due to the loss of a child, and counseling support services are expected to be offered to affected families and neighbors.
