The gunman who killed Afrique and injured his wife, Micayla, outside their home in July last year has not yet been positively identified. The accused, John-Ross Henderson, has pleaded not guilty to charges including murder, attempted murder, and defeating the ends of justice. 

Deputy Judge President Mmathebe Phatsoane indicated in court that if Henderson is found guilty, he could face a life sentence. Henderson, a director of Capital Guard Security, reported his cellphone missing on 1 August, a day after the shooting.

Despite several witnesses having testified, none has been able to positively identify the shooter, a factor that continues to cast uncertainty over the case.

Jayson Afrique and his wife, Micayla. Photo: Facebook

During her testimony, Micayla told the court: “When we approached our townhouse, I noticed a person standing in front of the gate. He was wearing a hoodie and grey pants, with his head bent down. I thought it was a student at first.”

“Jayson hooted at him, but he did not move, and I told him to reverse the car. When we heard the first gunshot, Jayson pushed my head down, shielding me from the multiple shots.”

“While I was crouched down, I heard the person running away, and the car window was shattered by the bullets fired through the passenger side.”

Henderson faces charges of murder, attempted murder, attempting to make a false report to the police, and defeating or obstructing the course of justice. He has been in custody since his arrest, remains behind bars, and has not applied for bail. He was denied bail for the third time on 8 March.

Crime scene investigator Sgt Tshepo Mogoiwa testified that the scene may have been contaminated when plastic containers were placed over the ten cartridge cases.

On Facebook, Afrique’s mother, Sonia, shared an image reading: “Son, days will pass and turn into years. But I will always remember you with silent tears.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh