Double tragedy for Masilela family
SLAIN Rhythm City actor Dumi Masilela’s family was dealt a double blow yesterday after his aunt collapsed and died after nearing news of his death.
The 29-year-old actor died in hospital after succumbing to gunshot injuries sustained in an attempted hijacking in Tembisa on Wednesday.
Masilelo was visiting a friend in Tembisa and was reportedly sitting in his parked vehicle when a black Jeep approached them. He tried to drive away, but the Jeep gave chase and the occupants opened fire.
Family spokesperson Mpumi Phillips confirmed Masilela’s aunt had died at the family home after hearing the news. She was Masilelo’s father’s sister and was still mourning the death of her brother last year.
“We can confirm that Dumi’s aunt has died, but the family will not elaborate further than this,” Phillips said.
Phillips added that Masilela’s wife, Simphiwe Ngema, had not anticipated her husband’s death. She believed doctors would save his life.
When the former Muvhango actress arrived at the hospital, Masilela was still conscious and the couple exchanged their final words before he went into surgery.
“She thought that the doctors would operate and treat his injuries. She didn’t think that he would die that night.” The star couple wed in May. In an official statement, e.tv said: “E.tv sends their condolences to Dumi’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Before pursuing acting, Masilela was a professional soccer player, who played for SuperSport United and Highlands Park, but his career came to a to a halt following a car crash. According to Jacaranda FM, police spokesperson Kay Makhubele said “while driving, Masilela and his friend were blocked off and shot at” in an alleged attempted hijacking. – Staff Reporter