Yet to break into the Kaizer Chiefs starting eleven after a dream move in October, Fleurs is described by everyone who knew him as a talented, caring and ambitious player who was loved by all.

Having started his career with Ubuntu in Cape Town, Fleurs went on to sign for SuperSport United, where he made 65 appearances, scoring twice.

He had made his debut for Ubuntu in the National First Division at just 17 years old and established himself as a South African under 20 international before going on to represent his country at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. He was called up to the senior side later that year but was still to make his Bafana debut.

And now a new adventure beckoned for the ambitious defender, having impressed while on trial at Chiefs, and had recently sat on the bench for the first time, in a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows as he patiently waited for his chance to shine for the Black and Gold.

He was the first graduate of the Ubuntu Academy to make it to the Premier Soccer League, their first national team player and first Olympian, recalled the coach who probably knew him the best, Casey Prince - the executive director of the Cape-based Academy - and someone who viewed Fleurs as a son.

When asked by the Citizen about what Fleurs meant to him, Prince recalled a player who touched so many lives.

He said: "I think Ubuntu is not a normal football club, so our relationship with our players is not normal and to lose a son is pretty devastating.

"The kids in the age groups hold a particularly important place in what we do because of the things they pioneered. Luke was a big part of that, as our first PSL player, our first national team player and first Olympian.

"He is one of the kids I had a particularly close relationship with so I am obviously devastated.

"Everyone was drawn to him because of the aura he gave off. His time with us was not without challenges.

"(But) he was so easy to love because of who he was, the younger boys and the older boys, they all loved him."

Upon completing the signing of Fleurs, Amakhosi Sporting Director, Kaizer Motaung Jr. had said: "We are very excited and happy to have Luke join us.

"The young man has great technical abilities and I think he will fit really well into how we want to approach the game and the kind of football we would like to play going forward.

"Of course, being a youth international and having experienced the Olympics, as well as having many PSL games under his belt, we believe his attributes will benefit the team."

Fleurs were certainly held in high esteem and it no surprise to see tributes pouring in for the young man.

Kaizer Chiefs posted: "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."

"We woke up to the heartbreaking and devastating news of the passing of this young life," South African Football Association president Danny Jordaan said. This is such a huge loss for his family, friends, his teammates and football in general."

"The football family has lost a bright flame," soccer presenter Carol Tshabalala posted on social media.

Lucas Radebe added: "Very sad indeed crime is on another level, another talent gone so soon. My condolences KaizerChiefs and the Family of Luke Fleurs #MHSRiP.

Remembering Luke Fleurs as South Africa mourns tragic loss of Kaizer Chiefs star