An inquest docket has been opened after a girl was shot dead in Braamfischerville, Soweto, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) said on Tuesday.
The girl, 11, was hit by a stray bullet when police were chasing a man in the area on Monday, said IPID spokesman Moses Dlamini.
Police said the man was wanted for malicious damage to property and intimidation, after he allegedly damaged the windows of his girlfriend’s home. He also threatened to kill the woman and her mother.
Lt-Col Lungelo Dlamini said police were called and the woman pointed out the man’s home.
“As the police approached the premises, [the] suspect released a dog and jumped over a wall.”
Dlamini said a chase ensued and a police officer fired two shots when the man drew his firearm.
The child, playing in the area, was hit by a bullet and she died at the scene.
The man is still being sought.
