A Leicester teacher has died as a result of a gunshot to her head, in what is believed to have been a freak and tragic accident, whilst holidaying in South Africa.
Fatima Issa, 47, had been holidaying with her husband Fayaz, when the incident happened yesterday (Monday, August 8).
She had been visiting family at a house in Meyersdal view Estate, outside Johannesburg, when she was struck by a rogue bullet.
According to South African media, a firearm was allegedly discharged by a relative, who was cleaning a gun at the time, and appears to have forgotten that it was loaded.
While he inspected and cleaned the revolver, he allegedly accidentally pulled the trigger and a 9mm round hit Fatima at point blank range.
Paramedics rushed to the scene but were unable to save the 47-year-old, who lived in Lymington Road, Leicester.
Mrs Issa’s brother Ebrahim Lambat confirmed her death on Facebook saying: “Request duas for my sister Fatima Issa. She has returned to the mercy of Allah.”
Mrs Issa was a teacher at The City of Leicester College, as well as a mother of four.
The college have expressed their ‘shock and sadness’, after learning about Mrs Issa’s death
“Everyone at the city of Leicester College is deeply shocked and saddened to hear about the tragic passing of our colleague and friend Fatima Issa,” they said in a statement.
“We all wish her family courage and peace during this time.”
Local sources in Leicester have revealed that other relatives of Mrs Issa are making plans to fly out to South Africa.
A South African police spokesman said that they could not comment on the incident as it was too early. However, they confirmed that a full investigation is underway.
