Tragedy on the Pitch: 13-Year-Old Football Star Fatally Shot in Cape Town

• A young football player from Seawinds, Cape Town, was fatally shot in an apparent gang-related attack over the weekend
• Local soccer clubs and the community plan a peaceful march to demand safety and justice for the young talent
• Friends, coaches, and family mourn the loss of a promising and vibrant boy whose life was cut tragically short

The Cape Town football community is devastated after promising 13-year-old Ashtin Brooks was shot dead in Seawinds. The young midfielder was fatally shot in the back of the head on Friday, January 16, 2025, in what police say appears to have been gang-related violence.

Provincial police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed that Muizenberg police opened a murder investigation following the shooting.

“The victim was declared deceased at the scene by medical personnel. The motive is believed to be gang-related,” he said.

Football clubs in Seawinds react

Football clubs across the area have rallied in response. Greenwood Athletic AFC’s chairman, Raymond Brickles, said the community will hold a peaceful demonstration on Monday, 19 January, along Joe Marks Boulevard in Steenberg.

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“Enough is enough. This demonstration is for the lives of our children, to stand together and demand safety and justice,” he said.

For Baheer Ford, Ashtin’s coach and chairman of Steenberg United Soccer Club, the loss is deeply personal.

“Ashtin wasn’t just a talented player; he was a bright, funny, and generous boy who made everyone smile. Seeing his friends and teammates cry showed the true impact he had on everyone,” he said.

Ashtin's family heartbroken

Ashtin’s grandmother, Aysha Davids, recalled the boy’s dreams and ambitions.

“He loved helping others, loved soccer, and was excited about this year. He even joked about his prom and asked me to organise a Lamborghini for him. He didn’t deserve this,” she said.

Known for his community spirit, Ashtin often helped distribute party packs to children and aspired to a career in law enforcement. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, 24 January, with details to be confirmed.

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Ward 45 councillor Mandy Marr urged residents to support police investigations.

“The community must provide tips so that authorities can act proactively. Illegal semi-automatic guns must be removed from our streets to prevent more tragedies,” she said, adding a plea for parents to watch over their children.

In recent months, South Africa has lost several sports stars in tragic circumstances. In October 2025, veteran Border rugby player Sive “Richie McCaw” Tshaka, 34, was stabbed to death in Keiskammahoek. A few months later, in December, 17-year-old Gqeberha schoolboy, Kungawo Booi, succumbed to the injuries he incurred during training at the Westering High School.

Springbok legends who passed away in 2025

Briefly News previously reported that 2025 was one of the darkest years in the history of the Springboks as several legendary figures lost their lives.

From the oldest living Springbok to more recently retired rugby stars, the year became a sombre chapter for South African rugby.

Source: Briefly News