KEY POINTS
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85-year-old Gert Bruhns now faces murder charges after his son died from a neck gunshot wound during a Saturday altercation in Bloemfontein
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Police arrested Bruhns near the N1 highway while allegedly trying to escape, recovering a loaded firearm and ammunition
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The case raises questions about geriatric mental health assessments for gun owners and proper conflict resolution among elderly citizens
In a shocking incident that has left the Bainsvlei community reeling, an 85-year-old Father Gert Bruhns has been charged with murder after his 56-year-old son succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during an altercation on Saturday.
What began as an attempted murder investigation took a grim turn when the victim, whose identity has not yet been released, passed away in hospital from injuries to his neck.
According to police spokesperson Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, the incident occurred at a residence on Midhurst Avenue. “The suspect was apprehended near the N1 highway while attempting to flee the scene,” Kareli confirmed. Authorities recovered a loaded firearm along with additional ammunition during the arrest.
The father made his first appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where his case was postponed to April 29 for further investigation.
According to Sowetanlive, the upgraded charge from attempted murder to murder carries significantly harsher penalties under South African law, with minimum sentencing guidelines that could see the octogenarian face life imprisonment if convicted.
Neighbors expressed shock at the violent turn of events. “They were quiet people—you’d see the son visiting on weekends, sometimes they’d barbecue together,” said one resident who asked to remain anonymous. “This is the last thing we expected.”
Forensic experts are examining the scene for additional evidence, while psychologists have been brought in to assess Bruhns’ mental state. The case has drawn attention to South Africa’s aging prison population and how the justice system accommodates elderly offenders.
Gun control questions resurface after latest family violence incident
The recovery of the firearm has reignited debates about weapon ownership among seniors. Police records show Bruhns held a valid license for the 9mm pistol used in the shooting. “This tragedy underscores why we need stricter psychological evaluations for gun owners over 70,” said Gun Free SA spokesperson Claire Taylor.
Meanwhile, victim support services are counseling the deceased’s family, including his children who now mourn both their father and grandfather’s impending trial. As the community awaits justice, this case serves as a grim reminder of how quickly domestic disputes can turn deadly.
