Two masked robbers shoot six-year-old and parents during Buffelsdraai home invasion

Family shot during armed robbery at Buffelsdraai home

A six-year-old boy and his parents were shot during an armed robbery at a residence in Buffelsdraai, KwaZulu-Natal, on Monday evening, 8 June 2026. Members of the Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) were called to the property at 19:46 following reports of a shooting.

Attackers held family and friends hostage

Rusa’s report says two masked gunmen entered the home and held two friends of the family hostage at gunpoint while they waited for the homeowners to return. The witnesses alleged the suspects said the couple lived a “luxurious lifestyle” and claimed they had substantial amounts of money.

How the robbery unfolded

The witnesses told Rusa the attackers demanded cash and valuables and stayed in contact with an unknown accomplice by cellphone, who was monitoring the family’s movements. The suspects reportedly received information that the family had arrived and parked at a neighbouring property. The hostages were locked in a room and robbed of their cellphones before the suspects confronted the family outside.

Injuries and medical response

According to Rusa, shots were fired when the couple allegedly attempted to flee. The 46-year-old husband sustained a gunshot wound to his stomach; the 41-year-old wife was shot in her left leg and right hand; and their six-year-old son sustained one gunshot wound to his buttocks. All three victims were privately transported to hospital for medical treatment.

Scene and suspects

Several spent cartridges were recovered at the scene. Rusa reported that the gunmen fled in an unknown direction before first responders arrived.