Manhunt Launched After Six-Year-Old Shot and Killed at Meadowdale McDonald’s

A tragic shooting at a McDonald’s drive-thru in Meadowdale, Bedfordview, has left a six-year-old boy dead and sparked a police manhunt for three suspects. The incident occurred during a robbery on Friday night, leaving the community and the nation in shock.

According to Gauteng police, the suspects entered the McDonald’s drive-thru before two of them forced their way into the outlet to rob staff members. The victim and his parents were in the vehicle behind the suspects when the tragedy unfolded.

“It is alleged that while they were robbing the store, a third suspect driving a getaway car approached a vehicle at the drive-thru with the father, mother, and their six-year-old,” said police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi.

The third suspect robbed the family of their belongings before firing a shot at their car. The family, unaware that their child had been struck, drove home but soon realized the boy had been injured. Despite rushing him to Primrose Hospital, the child was declared dead upon arrival.

A child was shot dead during a robbery at the McDonalds drive-thru in Meadowdale in Edenvale on Friday night.#CrimeWatch pic.twitter.com/ByoDg3J0u0

— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) January 5, 2025

The Bedfordview Community Policing Forum (CPF) expressed their condolences to the grieving family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the innocent child whose life was cut short by this senseless shooting,” said the CPF.

Security companies are collaborating with the police by reviewing surveillance footage to track the perpetrators.

McDonald’s South Africa also expressed its devastation over the incident.

“This is a devastating moment for the family, our team, and the broader community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this incredibly difficult time,” said McDonald’s Chief Marketing Officer, Daniel Padiachy.

Padiachy added that the franchise is cooperating with authorities to support the investigation and ensure that justice is served.

Authorities have opened a case of murder and business robbery. While no arrests have been made, police are intensifying their efforts to bring the suspects to justice.

“We appeal to anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward,” added Nevhuhulwi.

This tragic incident highlights the growing concerns over violent crime in South Africa and its impact on innocent lives. Communities and businesses are urging for stronger measures to address such crimes, as families like this one bear the unimaginable pain of loss

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