South African Olympic footballer Luke Fleurs has reportedly died after being shot in a botched car jacking.
Multiple reports out of Johannesburg say the 24-year-old was killed on Wednesday.
Police are yet to issue an official statement, with a spokesperson telling Sunday World they were still gathering information.
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His club Kaizer Chiefs, who played a league game on Wednesday, have also yet to comment on the reports.
But tributes have poured in for Fleurs.
“I cannot believe this after seeing him a few days ago,” South African journalist Lorenz Kohler wrote.
“Incredibly sad moment.
“My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.”
TV presenter Thomas Mlambo said: “Death be not proud, rest in peace Luke Fleurs.”
Fleurs was yet to make a league appearance for Kaizer Chiefs after joining from SuperSport United late last year.
“Dreams do come true,” he wrote upon signing for his new club.
He started his career with Ubuntu Cape Town and became a South African Premier Division regular for SuperSport.
Youth international call-ups followed, with Fleurs starting all three matches for his country at the Tokyo Olympics.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Kaizer Chiefs defender Luke Fleurs,” Cape Town City FC said.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to Fleurs’ family, friends, and the broader South African football community during this difficult time.”
