DOG-LOVING TEEN SHOT DEAD - Hanover Park is angry after the senseless killing of local crime fighter’s son

HANOVER Park has been rocked with the senseless killing of an innocent child - 16-year-old Crystal High School Grade 9 learner Lushaan Hendricks. 

Lushaan was gunned down in gang crossfire on Thursday in Surran Road, an area which was terrorised by shootings at the weekend. 

A 23-year-old man also sustained gunshot wounds to his legs and arms in the same incident but survived the attack.

According to police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg, Lushaan was hit in the chest and was declared dead upon arrival at the medical facility. 

He confirmed that Philippi police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.

Twigg reported: “Philippi police attended to a complaint of a person who was shot and was brought to the hospital on Thursday evening, 18 December 2025. Upon arrival at the facility the medical staff pointed out the body of a 16-year-old boy who sustained a gunshot wound to his chest. 

“He was declared deceased on arrival. According to reports the victim and another person were shot in Surran Road, Hanover Park. 

“The 23-year-old male sustained gunshot wounds to his arms and legs. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

“Murder and attempted murder cases were registered for investigation.”

Crystal High School took to their Facebook page to share a notice of passing and wrote in a heartfelt post: “It is with heavy hearts that we once again have to announce the passing of one of our Crystalites. 

“Lushaan Hendricks tragically has been taken from us this evening. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and everyone who knew him as they mourn his passing. We pray for peace and comfort during this trying time.”

Lushaan is the son of local crime fighter Melanie Hendricks who works with the community in many crime-prevention initiatives. 

Public Relations Officer for the Hanover Park Community Police Forum and Discipline Head at Crystal High School, Kashiefa Mohammed, said the community is angry about the murder.

Mohammed explained: “Lushaan was a very happy child. He was not involved with any gangsterism. He was involved with dogs because I always saw him walking and playing in the community with dogs. Hy was soos kind, very friendly and kind.

“For the past seven days we have had murders in Hanover Park, while our children are on school holiday. Hanover Park is so tense and broken because how can gangsters just shoot an innocent child and not think anything of it? We feel the pain with Melanie. 

“There are shootings all over, Hanover Park is like a graveyard.”

Police are appealing to anyone with any information about this shooting incident to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.