Tragedy in Pietermaritzburg: PhD Graduate Shot Dead While Protecting His Sister

The community of Pietermaritzburg is reeling in shock after the tragic murder of 30-year-old Wandile Mkhize, a young PhD graduate, who was gunned down outside a primary school in Grange on Monday morning. Mkhize was shot while dropping off his sister, who works at the school, and her two young children.

According to the grieving family, Mkhize was killed while trying to protect his sister. A family member, who wished to remain anonymous, said the attack occurred as his sister was busy unloading bags from the boot of the car. Suddenly, an unidentified man approached and opened fire on Mkhize before fleeing in a getaway vehicle.

“He was just sitting in the car when the shooter walked past and started firing shots,” the family member recounted.

Mkhize, a resident of Imbali, had recently completed his PhD in a medical-related field. He was excitedly looking forward to his graduation next month—a milestone his family had been eagerly waiting to celebrate.

This tragic incident is the latest in a disturbing string of violent events targeting the family. The nightmare began in January 2019 when Mkhize’s sister’s husband was shot dead outside their home in Imbali Unit 13. Following the murder, she began receiving threatening phone calls demanding money.

“In February 2019, she started receiving calls from unknown people who demanded money,” the family member explained.

In August 2022, she held an unveiling ceremony for her late husband. Just a few months later, in December 2022, gunmen fired several shots at her house while standing at the gate. The family endured constant threats and violence over the years, with calls and attacks continuing into 2024.

“She kept receiving threatening phone calls until July 2024. Later that year, in November, attackers shot at the family home again,” the family member added.

Earlier this year, in January 2025, the threats escalated when a caller demanded money, claiming her late husband owed money invested in a scheme. Despite her insistence that she knew nothing about the matter, the harassment continued. In February 2025, gunmen returned and fired more shots at the house.

The family reported these repeated threats and attacks to the South African Police Service (SAPS), but they claim little action was taken. “We begged the police to patrol the area, but nothing was done. Not once have we seen a police van here,” the family said, expressing their frustration and fear.

The family strongly believes Mkhize was targeted because of the ongoing threats linked to his sister’s late husband. “He took her to work every day and now he’s gone. He was quiet, humble, and dedicated to his studies and family. We don’t know why this happened, and we feel unsafe,” they added.

Local leaders have condemned the attack. Msunduzi Ward 19 Councillor Vusi Ngwenya described the killing as a huge loss to the community. Grange Councillor Sinothi Nkabini also expressed concern that the shooting took place near a school, traumatizing young children.

uMgungundlovu SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala confirmed that a murder case has been opened and the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made, and the motive remains unknown.

The family now lives in constant fear, longing for justice for Wandile Mkhize—a brilliant young man whose life was cut short.