Luke Fleurs, a promising talent of Kaizer Chiefs football club, met an untimely demise in a shocking car hijacking incident. The 24-year-old defender was fatally wounded at a Johannesburg petrol station on Wednesday evening, leaving the sports world in mourning.
According to Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the assailants were armed with a firearm, forcibly removing Fleurs from his vehicle before shooting him in the upper body.
Kaizer Chiefs, in a statement shared on social media, expressed profound sadness over the loss, extending heartfelt condolences to Fleurs' family and friends during this trying time. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is actively investigating the matter, promising to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
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
Fleurs, who had recently inked a two-year deal with Kaizer Chiefs, was yet to grace the pitch in their iconic jersey, having previously showcased his skills during a five-year stint with SuperSport United. Fondly remembered by his former club, SuperSport United, as a dedicated athlete, the news of Fleurs' passing has cast a pall of sorrow over the entire football community.
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
Hailing from Mitchells Plain, a township in Cape Town, Fleurs' journey into professional football commenced at a tender age of 17, marking his debut with Ubuntu Cape Town. His talents were further recognized on the international stage, representing South Africa in the Under-23 category, including a memorable stint at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
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Although Fleurs received call-ups to the senior national team, fate denied him the opportunity to don the national colors on the field. The tragic loss of this talented athlete has prompted heartfelt condolences from South African Minister of Sport Zizi Kodwa, who decried the pervasive violence claiming yet another promising life.
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
As the football fraternity grapples with the loss of one of its own, the legacy of Luke Fleurs will endure as a testament to his passion and dedication to the beautiful game. Amidst the sorrow, may his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory inspire a renewed commitment to combating violence in society.
