Neighbours’ argument turns deadly

A PHOENIX family is still traumatised by the killing of their father, Alan Pillay, 53, who was allegedly gunned down by a neighbour at his Palmview Drive residence.

It is believed that Pillay had been involved in a long-standing dispute with the accused over money Pillay had borrowed from him last year.

Police said the men were arguing on Friday night when the accused pulled out a firearm and opened fire.

Pillay was subsequently shot in the chin and was declared dead on the scene by first responders.

The neighbour was arrested.

Pillay’s daughter, Alison, who saw the shooting, said her father had gone to the shop to buy cigarettes and the man who shot him had provoked him.

An altercation ensued and the suspect opened fire on Pillay.

“It took very long for the ambulance to come. He was still breathing for five to 10 minutes,” she said.

Alan’s oldest daughter, Clarissa, said the incident was a revenge attack.

“This is not a random thing. That man loans money to people.

“My father borrowed money on behalf of a friend last year, but the friend wasn’t paying the debt, so my father was responsible.

“This has been ongoing and there was a confrontation earlier this year as well,” she said.

“My father just started a new business and was so excited about the partnership.

“He was into sport and ran the Comrades, and he loved Liverpool.

“We need justice.

“No one has the right to take someone else’s life. There are legal ways to do things.

“We can only hope, God willing, that justice prevails,” said Clarissa.

A firearm was recovered and entered in the SAPS exhibit register and an empty cartridge was found near the accused’s house. Police were investigating a case of murder.