RIP | Boy, 8, dies in suspected firecracker incident

An eight-year-old Grade 1 learner has died in Cape Town following a suspected firecracker incident, just days before Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Toheer Lewis, a pupil at Manenberg Primary School, died on Sunday morning, 1 November.

According to reports, the boy was involved in an alleged firecracker incident in Manenberg on Saturday night.

Western Cape police have opened an inquest into his death.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that the incident occurred in Kei Street, Manenberg.

He said investigators were still establishing the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

A post-mortem examination will determine the cause.

Police have not confirmed whether a firecracker was responsible.

Calls for crackdown on illegal fireworks

Community organisation Fight Against Crime South Africa (FACSA) has called for stronger action against the illegal sale of fireworks to children.

The organisation identified the boy as Toheer Lewis and urged police and law enforcement officers to target illegal fireworks traders in Manenberg and surrounding areas.

“This is not entertainment, it is danger,” FACSA said.

The organisation raised concerns about children accessing fireworks ahead of Guy Fawkes on Thursday, 5 November.

However, investigators have yet to establish whether the reported incident involved illegally obtained fireworks.

FACSA extended its condolences to Toheer’s family, classmates and teachers at Manenberg Primary School.

The organisation also urged parents to warn children about the dangers associated with fireworks and to report suspected illegal sellers.

Police are awaiting the results of the post-mortem examination. The investigation continues.