Kaizer Chiefs defender Luke Fleurs has passed away after being gunned down during a hijacking incident in Florida on Wednesday.

In a statement on social media platform X (Twitter), Kaizer Chiefs confirmed the news of his passing, adding that police are handling the matter and that further details will be communicated in due course.

The statement said: “It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce that Kaizer Chiefs player, Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time. The SAPS are handling the matter and further details will be communicated in due course. May his dear soul rest in peace.”

The 24-year-old Fleurs joined Chiefs as a free agent in October having been released by previous club SuperSport United in September.

Fleurs played 70 times for SuperSport United, whom he joined from first-division Ubuntu FC in 2018. He was named 2021-22 PSL Young Player of the Season.