South African warrant officer convicted of killing son by mistake
A warrant officer in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has been convicted of murdering his 25-year-old son after mistaking him for an intruder. The man, Vincent Mkhize, shot his son, Ayanda Gift Mkhize, outside their home in the early hours of December 28, 2022. This verdict was handed down by the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court.
According to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, Warrant Officer Mkhize heard sounds at the front of his house that suggested someone was tampering with the burglar gate. He armed himself with his service pistol, went to investigate, and fired two shots when he saw a figure at the front door. The figure turned out to be his son, who identified himself after being shot. He was rushed to the hospital but later died of his injuries.
The case was transferred to the National Prosecuting Authority, which recommended the murder charge. Mkhize was found guilty as charged. Sentencing is set for December 2, 2025. His bail has been extended until that date.
