Tributes have been pouring in for slain soccer star, Luke Fleurs, who was killed in a botched hijacking on Wednesday evening.
The Premier Soccer League said in tribute to Fleurs' memory, a moment of silence will be observed at all DStv Premiership, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and DStv Diski Challenge fixtures this weekend.
“The PSL is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Kaizer Chiefs defender, Luke Fleurs. In this moment of profound loss, the PSL extends deepest sympathies to Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, the Fleurs family, and the entire football community. May his soul repose peacefully,” the PSL shared.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Kaizer Chiefs defender, Luke Fleurs.
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) April 4, 2024
In this moment of profound loss, the PSL extends deepest sympathies to Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, the Fleurs family, and the entire football community.
In… pic.twitter.com/F0biFYNIvW
Fleurs had been parked in his red VW Golf 8 GTI at around 8.30pm waiting to put in petrol at a Honeydew petrol station when he was accosted by armed men.
Police said the suspects pointed a firearm at the 24-year-old before pulling him out of his car, shooting him once in the upper body and fleeing the scene.
"One suspect drove off with the victim's car followed by his accomplice, in a white BMW 1 Series. The victim was taken to the nearest medical care centre where he was certified dead on arrival," said Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo.
An investigation is under way and no arrests have been effected as yet, police confirmed.
Fleurs was contracted to Kaizer Chiefs.
In a post on social media, the team said their thoughts were with the Fleurs family at this difficult time.
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.
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) April 4, 2024
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
The SAPS are handling… pic.twitter.com/4CTCiH1I41
Comedian Dillan Oliphant shared a touching post on X, saying violence cannot continue in the country.
Rest In Peace Luke Fleurs pic.twitter.com/RWwstQH7OL
— Dillan Oliphant (@dillanoliphant) April 4, 2024
“I am saddened by the passing of @KaizerChiefs defender and former junior international Luke Fleurs. 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,” posted Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture, Zizi Kodwa.
I am saddened by the passing of @KaizerChiefs defender and former junior international Luke Fleurs. 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. pic.twitter.com/h7XFpZFNS6
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) April 4, 2024
Everyone at SuperSport United is saddened to learn of the passing of former Spartan, Luke Fleurs 💙
— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) April 4, 2024
Our deepest condolences to the Fleurs family, friends and everyone at @KaizerChiefs. 🕊
May your soul Rest In eternal Peace. 🙏#MatsatsantsaUnified pic.twitter.com/nLIXSURrXH
Absolutely shocked to hear the heartbreaking news of Luke Fleurs untimely passing 🕊️
— Carol Tshabalala (@SimplyCarol8) April 4, 2024
The football family has lost a bright flame. May he rest in peace 🕯️
Heartfelt prayers, strength and condolences to the family 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/OjaKMxfJPH
Stellenbosch Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic and untimely passing of Kaizer Chiefs defender Luke Fleurs.
— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) April 4, 2024
We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/l8yYClqPOt
There is no word yet on funeral arrangements.
IOL