Grade 1 learner dies after alleged firecracker incident

Eight-year-old Toheer Lewis, a Grade 1 learner at Manenberg Primary School, reportedly died following a firecracker incident. Police have opened an inquest to investigate his death.

Western Cape police have opened an inquest into the death of an eight-year-old Grade 1 learner who reportedly sustained injuries in a firecracker incident in Manenberg, Cape Town.

Toheer Lewis, a learner at Manenberg Primary School, reportedly died on Sunday morning, November 1, after an alleged firecracker incident on Saturday night.

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that Manenberg police had registered an inquest following the child's death in Kei Street.

"Manenberg police registered an inquest for investigation following the death of an eight-year-old boy in Kei Street, Manenberg," Twigg said.

"The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation. A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death."

Police have not yet confirmed whether a firecracker caused the child's death.

Following the child's death, community crime-fighting organisation Fight Against Crime South Africa (FACSA) called on police and law enforcement authorities to intensify operations against the illegal sale and use of fireworks in Manenberg and surrounding communities.

The organisation, which identified the deceased as Toheer Lewis, said the tragedy highlighted the dangers associated with fireworks, particularly among children.

"FACSA strongly condemns the illegal sale and use of fireworks / firecrackers to minors in our communities. This is not entertainment, it is danger," the organisation said.

"We call on SAPS and Law Enforcement to urgently clamp down on the illegal trade of fireworks in Manenberg and surrounds, especially ahead of Guy Fawkes season."

The organisation's appeal comes ahead of Guy Fawkes celebrations on November 5, when concerns over the misuse of fireworks traditionally intensify.

However, police have not established whether the incident involved illegally obtained fireworks.

FACSA extended its condolences to the child's family, classmates, teachers and the broader Manenberg Primary School community.

"The loss of a child so young is a tragedy that has shaken the entire community. No family should have to endure such pain," the organisation said.

"To the family of little Toheer, his classmates, his teacher, and the entire Manenberg Primary School family, FACSA extends our deepest and most sincere condolences."

The organisation urged parents to educate children about the dangers of fireworks and encouraged community members to report suspected illegal sellers to police.

"A child has lost his life. Let this be the last such tragedy," FACSA said.

Police investigations are continuing, with the post-mortem examination expected to establish the child's cause of death.