Community mourns the tragic loss of 13-year-old Ashtin Brooks in Seawinds

The community and local soccer clubs are shocked after a 13-year-old boy was shot and killed in Seawinds.

In a show of solidarity, they are organising a peaceful demonstration on Monday, January 19, at 5.30pm, along Joe Marks Boulevard, in Steenberg.

Ashtin Brooks, described as a promising, respectful, and vibrant boy by those who knew him, died after he was shot in the back of his head in an alleged gang shooting in St Peter’s Street on Friday afternoon at about 5.05pm.

Provincial police spokesperson, Captain FC Van Wyk, said Muizenberg police registered a murder case for investigation after receiving a complaint of a shooting incident.

Upon arrival at the address, he said, the community pointed out the body of a juvenile boy that was lying in the road. 

“The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The motive is believed to be gang-related.” 

Raymond Brickles, chairman and organiser of Greenwood Athletic AFC, said the demonstration will be an awareness demonstration for the lives of the children and to stand together as a community and demand safety and justice.

"Enough is enough."

Baheer Ford, Ashtin’s coach and chairman of the Steenberg United Soccer Club, said that Ashtin was more than just a star player to him, as he saw the boy grow up in front of him.

“Ashtin was that type of person who was always friendly, always cracking a joke and always leaving you with something to smile about. 

“He always wanted to make a difference. We are very heartbroken but also very angry. We gathered yesterday (Sunday January 18) as a small get-together turned into a big march, showing the true impact he had on everyone," he said.

All of Ashtin’s friends gathered.

“They were crying, and we could see what an impact Ashtin had on them. It angered me to see them so affected,” said Mr Ford.

The Grade 7 pupil from Prince George Primary School was shot dead after leaving a barber shop at 4.45pm, his grandmother Aysha Davids said.

“He didn’t deserve this,” she said, describing him as a friendly, curious boy who loved helping others in the community.

“He was so excited to start the year. He even said this would be the year he would have his prom and asked me to organise a Lamborghini,” Ms Davids said.

He often helped hand out party packs to other children and dreamed of a career in law enforcement. He spent weekends with his grandmother and stayed with his father during the week.

Ms Davids described the family’s visit to the mortuary as “devastating.” His mother had plans for him to attend Cape Academy for high school.

His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, with further details to be confirmed.

Ward 45 councillor Mandy Marr said: “We don’t know why Ashtin was targeted, but yes, this is gang-related. I was on scene with the family on Friday evening. It was devastating to see a mother and a grandmother sobbing for their murdered child.”

Ms Marr said the police are battling without the community's help with tips.

“Saps can only put preventative measures in place if they have information from the community, otherwise their actions remain reactive instead of proactive," she said, adding that the acting station commander has confirmed that she has received extra deployment. 

Ms Marr said illegal guns need to be investigated.

“The guns on the street are semi-automatic rifles, and we need to somehow find a way to get these guns off the streets. Once again, I appeal to the community for information.”

Ms Marr said parents should know where their children are at all times.

“There are many children walking around in the evenings, making them targets for grooming or to be shot in crossfire. Please, parents, keep your children inside at night and be vigilant about who they associate with, as the gangs start grooming children from a young age. Know your child's friends, and educate your children on the dangers of being involved with gangsters."

Anyone with information about the shooting incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.