Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness strongly condemns EMS attack

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness strongly condemns all attacks on our Emergency Medical Services personnel and our patients.

We can confirm that on Thursday, 18 June 2026, an Emergency Medical Services team member tragically passed away following a smash-and-grab incident in the vicinity of Jan van Riebeeck Drive and Epping Avenue.

We can further confirm that our staff member was not shot. At this stage, the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and the cause of death remain under investigation. The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is collaborating fully with the South African Police Service.

We extend our sincere condolences to our staff member’s family, loved ones and colleagues during this deeply difficult time.

We are currently working to ensure that the staff member’s family has been informed, and we ask for sensitivity and respect for their privacy.

Counselling services have been made available to our teams following the passing of our staff member.

Mireille Wenger, Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, said "Our EMS personnel are dedicated public healthcare workers who serve communities around the clock, often under challenging and dangerous conditions, to save lives. They must be able to perform their duties without fear of violence. Attacks on those who have committed their lives to caring for others are unacceptable and deeply distressing."

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.