A South African based Zimbabwean who fatally struck a pedestrian while driving a Toyota Quantum minibus along Masiyephambili road in Bulawayo is facing a culpable homicide charge.
According to a police report, the 39-year-old driver, whose name was not revealed, struck a 14-year-old female from Old Magwegwe along Masiyephambili road on Tuesday afternoon.
The teenager later succumbed to the injuries sustained from the accident.
Bulawayo police provincial spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed that they have launched investigations into the matter.
“Police in Bulawayo are investigating a case of fatal road accident which occurred on the 5th of January 2021 at around 1530 hours along Masiyephambili road near Hyde Park road, Bulawayo where a pedestrian was killed,” said Inspector Ncube.
“The driver is a male adult aged 39 years, residing in Gandambula line, village 26 under Chief Mabhikwa, Lupane. He was driving a white Toyota Quantum registration number HT 41YL GP along Masiyephambili road, Bulawayo, due South with five passengers on board. He is a holder of a valid South African driver’s licence. The vehicle licence and insurance are yet to be produced”.
Inspector Ncube added that the circumstances are that the driver struck the pedestrian as she intended to cross the road.
“As a result of the accident, the pedestrian sustained head injuries and she was ferried to Mpilo Hospital where she died upon admission,” said Insp Ncube.
“The driver and the passengers did not sustain any injuries while his motor vehicle suffered a shattered windscreen, left headlight and deformed bonnet. The vehicle was towed to ZRP Bulawayo traffic West awaiting VED examination.
Insp Ncube said the cause of the fatal accident has been attributed to speeding and the driver is facing a culpable homicide charge.
Inspector Ncube urged drivers to follow road traffic regulations to avoid loss of lives.
“This accident was avoidable had the driver applied himself fully,” he said.
