Fundraiser launched for Pinetown father after hijacking shooting incident

A BackaBuddy fundraiser has been launched to help a Pinetown father cover legal expenses and trauma counselling for his two children following a fatal shooting during an alleged hijacking attempt, JoburgEtc reports.

The campaign, titled Sidney Hijacking Survivor, aims to raise R500 000 to support Sidney Hill and his children as they recover from the incident on Friday, 9 October.

According to the fundraising page, the money will help cover legal costs arising from the shooting and provide professional counselling for the children for as long as they need it.

The campaign organisers said the full legal expenses and duration of the counselling remain unknown. Hill is described as a single father facing unexpected financial pressure following the incident.

Messages of support on the campaign included: ‘Sidney you are an inspiration sir!!! You have a nation behind you!!!’ Another supporter wrote, ‘You a true hero Sidney. Wish I could be there to support you but my thoughts are with you and your kids. Sending you love and hugs.’ Others shared messages of encouragement, including ‘Praying for you and your children, I salute your bravery’ and ‘Well done Sir.’

The fundraiser follows the circulation of dashcam footage showing the father exchanging gunfire with alleged hijackers while travelling with his children. As Joburg Etc previously reported, KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed that one suspect was fatally wounded during the encounter.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza said cases of attempted murder, attempted carjacking and an inquest had been opened at Pinetown police station.

The remaining suspects reportedly fled the scene. The fundraiser aims to help the family manage the financial and emotional consequences of the shooting while the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Those wishing to contribute can visit the Sidney Hijacking Survivor campaign on BackaBuddy.