Luke Fleurs, the 24-year-old defender who joined Kaizer Chiefs last year, was tragically shot dead in a car hijacking incident in Johannesburg.
The car hijacking happened in the Johannesburg suburb Florida on Wednesday night when Fleurs was approached by gunmen at a petrol station.
Mavela Masondo, a spokesperson for the Gauteng police, told local media that 'The suspects pointed at him with a gun and took him out of his car, then shot him once in the upper body.'
Kaizer Chiefs issued a statement, saying: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the tragic loss of Kaizer Chiefs player, Luke Fleurs, during a car hijacking incident in Johannesburg last night.'
'Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.'
'The SAPS are handling the matter and more details will be communicated soon.'
'May his dear soul rest in peace.'
Zizi Kodwa, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, added: 'I am saddened by the passing of Kaizer Chiefs defender and former junior international Luke Fleurs. My thoughts are with the Fleurs and Amakhosi family, and the entire South African football fraternity.'
'I am saddened that yet another life has been cut short due to violent crime. My thoughts are with the Fleurs and Amakhosi family, and the entire South African football fraternity.'
Fleurs had previously played for Ubuntu Cape Town and SuperSport United before moving to Kaizer Chiefs in October 2023.
The centre-back represented his country at youth level up to the Under-23s and had been called up to the senior national squad, but never won a full cap.
Former club SuperSport United posted a tribute, reading: 'Everyone at SuperSport United is saddened to learn of the passing of former Spartan, Luke Fleurs 💙
'Our deepest condolences to the Fleurs family, friends and everyone at Kaizer Chiefs. 🕊
'May your soul Rest In eternal Peace.'
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