What Happened in Emmarentia
On a Sunday afternoon, a minor traffic clash on Barry Hertzog Avenue turned deadly. Faisal ul Rehman, a 48‑year‑old car dealer from Pretoria, was shot during a road‑rage incident. His wife, Tehseen, was also injured while trying to retrieve a firearm from their vehicle. Their two young children witnessed the shooting.
The Shooter’s Family Speaks Out
Days after the arrest, the family of the man who fired the gun released a statement to IOL. They asked that his name stay private but made clear they support his actions.
Acknowledging the Loss
The family began by saying they are not indifferent to the tragedy. They expressed sympathy for Rehman’s relatives, especially the children who lost their father and were traumatized by the event.
Self‑Defense Claim
According to the statement, the shooter acted to protect his own life and that of his wife. They said he was armed and legally licensed to carry a weapon, just like Rehman and Tehseen.
Legal Process and Presumption of Innocence
The family welcomed the National Prosecuting Authority’s decision not to prosecute immediately, noting that the case is now under a formal investigation. They stressed the importance of the presumption of innocence and urged that no one be judged before all facts are examined through lawful channels.
Police Investigation Details
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi explained that the confrontation escalated after Tehseen retrieved a gun from their car. The other driver, who was also armed, then opened fire. Rehman was killed; Tehseen suffered injuries to her hand and shoulder. Both firearms were legally owned.
Dashcam footage captured a physical fight between the two men just before the shooting. Separate cellphone videos, widely shared on social media, showed Rehman’s daughter crying beside her father while her brother tried to help.
Views from the Victim’s Family
Rehman’s nephew, Muhammad Wasi Haider, told IOL that his uncle never pointed his gun at the other driver. He believes the shooter could have avoided killing Faisal and accuses him of shooting to kill.
Haider also highlighted that Rehman was the main provider for more than 15 families in Pakistan, sending money home each month. Mourners gathered at West Park Cemetery to pray for his body, which is expected to be returned to Pakistan for burial. Tehseen remains hospitalized.
A Call for Safer Roads
Both families agree that the tragedy should serve as a lesson about the dangers of road violence. The shooter’s family urged everyone to learn from the incident so that no other family has to endure a similar loss.
How to Prevent Road‑Rage Escalation
- Stay calm and avoid aggressive gestures or shouting.
- If a conflict arises, try to de‑escalate by giving space or calling for help.
- Never reach for a weapon unless there is an immediate threat to life.
- Report dangerous driving to authorities instead of taking matters into your own hands.
Conclusion
The Emmarentia shooting has left two families shattered and a community questioning how everyday disagreements can turn fatal. While the shooter’s family maintains he acted in self‑defense, the victim’s relatives insist the killing was unnecessary. As the investigation continues, the incident reminds all drivers—especially young ones—that keeping emotions in check on the road can save lives. Let this be a moment to choose patience over aggression and to protect each other behind the wheel.
