Cop Kills Boyfriend, 5-Month-Old Baby Before Shooting Self In Double Murder-Suicide

In a double murder-suicide incident in South Africa, a police officer fatally shot her boyfriend and their 5-month-old baby before killing herself.

The incident left authorities concerned over domestic challenges that may have led to the tragedy. The Mpumalanga Police Commissioner appealed to officers working with them to seek help in case they are unable to tackle issues faced at home, local media IOL reported.

Lt. Gen. Mondli Zuma said the shooting incident linked to the 28-year-old constable was “devastating.” The incident took place Saturday.

While the exact motive behind the murder-suicide was not revealed, authorities believe the couple was experiencing problems in their household. Details of what led to the shooting also remain unclear. However, Brigadier Leonard Hlathi of the Mpumalanga Police told local media the couple was not staying together at the time of the incident.

Hlathi said the officers and paramedics arrived at the scene after they were informed about a shooting incident.

“Upon arrival, the woman was certified dead at the scene meanwhile her daughter as well as the father of her child were taken to a nearby clinic where the man unfortunately passed away on upon arrival... The little girl though, was transferred to hospital after being stabilized but later died. Police have since registered a case with two counts of murder and an inquest,” Hlathi said, IOL reported.

It is believed the officer used her service pistol to kill her boyfriend and their baby. However, the police are yet to confirm this. Authorities said an investigation is underway into the incident.

Talking to the media about the incident, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma said that such tragedies can be avoided if those affected with domestic dispute seek professional help.

“In the police, we have an Employee Health and Wellness section, which specializes on the wellness of members and they offer their services without expecting payment, because those professionals, are paid by the state... I therefore urge all members to effectively make use of the EHW where they can be alleviated of any social pressures they might encounter, " he said, IOL reported.