A 12-year-old Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, boy is fighting for his life after being accidentally shot in the head by another child during play on Tuesday morning, 25 November 2025.
The incident occurred at a home in Limit Hill, where a group of children were playing together. During this time, one of the children allegedly had access to a parent’s firearm.
The weapon discharged during their play, striking the boy in the head.
According to sources who arrived shortly after police were alerted, the injured child’s friends carried him to Limit Hill Clinic. He was later transferred to Ladysmith Regional Hospital before being urgently moved to Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in Durban for specialised care. He underwent surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma due to the severity of his injuries.
Ladysmith SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Khan confirmed that the other 12-year-old involved was taken into police custody and subsequently released into the care of a parent.
The firearm has been confiscated, and police are continuing their investigation.
This tragic incident has raised serious concern about unsecured firearms in households. Authorities have once again urged gun owners to store weapons safely and securely, noting that moments of innocent play can turn deadly when children have access to firearms.
As the young boy remains in critical care in Durban, the community is confronted with the harsh reality of a preventable tragedy — and the urgent responsibility of adults to ensure children are protected from such dangers.
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FAQs: 12-year-old Ladysmith child shot during play
According to police information, a group of children were playing at a home in Limit Hill when one child gained access to a parent’s firearm. The weapon discharged during play, striking a 12-year-old boy in the head.
He was initially treated at Limit Hill Clinic and Ladysmith Regional Hospital before being transferred to Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in Durban for specialised care. He underwent surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma.
The 12-year-old who discharged the firearm was taken into police custody and later released into the care of a parent. Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
The firearm, reportedly belonging to a parent, has been confiscated by the South African Police Service (SAPS) as part of their investigation.
Children under the age of 12 cannot be criminally charged. However, at age 12 and older, a child may be held criminally responsible depending on the circumstances and their level of maturity. SAPS and the NPA will determine how to proceed once the investigation concludes.
Yes. South African law requires firearm owners to store weapons safely and securely. Failure to do so may result in criminal charges or negligence findings if a child gains access to the gun.
Firearms must be kept locked in a secure safe that meets SAPS standards. Ammunition must be stored separately. Keys or codes must be inaccessible to children at all times.
While not an everyday occurrence, cases do arise where unsecured firearms lead to accidental injuries or fatalities involving minors. Authorities regularly warn gun owners to prioritise secure storage to prevent such incidents.
Ensure all firearms and ammunition are locked away securely, educate children about firearm dangers, and never leave weapons unattended or accessible — even briefly.
Yes. Local clinics, hospitals, and social workers can assist with trauma counselling for both affected children and their families.
