Patron allegedly shoots DJ dead at Masoyi tavern before turning gun on himself

Police in Mpumalanga are investigating a fatal shooting in which a patron allegedly shot a DJ at a tavern in Masoyi before turning the firearm on himself during Christmas Eve celebrations.

The incident occurred at about 11.30pm on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at a tavern in Mganduzweni Trust, Masoyi, near White River.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli says members attached to the Masoyi SAPS were conducting routine patrols along the R538 as part of the 2025/2026 Operation Festive Season when they noticed a group of people leaving the tavern.

Officers stopped to investigate and discovered that a shooting had taken place inside the establishment.

“The lifeless bodies of two male persons were found with injuries,” Mdhluli said.

Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene and both men were declared dead.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident unfolded after the DJ stopped playing music and began packing his equipment as the tavern was closing. Patrons allegedly insisted that he continue playing because it was Christmas.

Despite the DJ explaining that it was time to close, tensions reportedly escalated. Police say a 28-year-old patron allegedly produced a firearm and shot the DJ before turning the gun on himself.

A case of murder has been opened, along with an inquest. The firearm used in the incident has not yet been recovered. Police have also confirmed that the tavern is licensed.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a senseless act of violence.

“The increase in shooting incidents within liquor premises is alarming and detrimental to our society,” said Mkhwanazi. He called for a thorough investigation into how a firearm was able to enter the premises, noting that dangerous weapons are strictly prohibited in liquor establishments.

“It is very crucial that tavern owners take their responsibility to ensure safety of their patrons and employees. Failure to comply with safety regulations goes with legal consequences for the owners. A life has been lost here, and we cannot allow such tragic incident without consequences,” he said.

Police investigations are continuing.

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