A 15-year-old boy has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for fatally shooting 14-year-old Naeema Marshall in the head after she refused to kiss him. The tragic incident occurred on July 17, 2023, in Eerste River, Cape Town, following Naeema’s rejection of the boy’s romantic advances.
A Fatal Rejection
Naeema, a Grade 9 student at Beacon Valley High School, was visiting her aunt when she encountered the teenage boy, who had persistently pursued her. When he demanded a kiss and she refused, a heated exchange ensued.
Eyewitnesses reported that the boy ominously warned, “Jy sal sien jy” (“You will see”). Naeema, undeterred, insisted she was not afraid. As she walked back to her aunt’s home, the boy followed her and shot her in the left side of her head.
Investigation and Sentencing
Sergeant Wesley Twigg, a police spokesperson, confirmed that the provincial organized crime and anti-gang unit took charge of the case, gathering substantial evidence and witness testimonies.
On November 28, 2024, the court found the teenager guilty of murder. He remained in custody throughout the trial, with overwhelming evidence proving his guilt. The sentencing includes:
- 10 years for murder
- 3 years for illegal possession of ammunition
- 1 year for illegal possession of a firearm
The Western Cape police management praised the investigative team and prosecution for their relentless efforts in securing justice for Naeema.
