A scene of horror unfolded on 6th Avenue last night after a speeding kombi driver lost control, veered off the road and struck a group of pedestrians, killing two people on the spot and injuring twelve others.
The fatal incident occurred at around 2016 hours on Tuesday near OK Godini, when the driver of a Toyota Hiace, carrying 18 passengers, swerved violently and hit 14 people standing and walking alongside the road before crashing into a wall.
The deceased were identified as Christopher Mukuwapasi, believed to be in his late 30s and Lizzie Nkube, aged 30, of Cowdray Park.
The injured were rushed to Mpilo Hospital for treatment.
Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the driver, a 28-year-old man from Emakhandeni, has been arrested and charged with culpable homicide.
“The cause of the accident was due to speeding and failure to keep a proper lookout by the driver,” said Inspector Msebele.
She issued a stern warning to all motorists, emphasising the need for constant vigilance. “We urge all drivers to be extra careful when driving, to be on the lookout for pedestrians at all times, avoid over‑speeding and high‑take‑off speeds, especially in places with high pedestrian movements, and to observe all rules and regulations so as to avoid such accidents.”
Inspector Msebele also placed responsibility on kombi operators and passengers.
“Owners of public service vehicles are urged to employ properly licensed and experienced drivers. Passengers are discouraged from boarding from undesignated places but to board at designated pick‑up points.”
The tragedy has reignited concerns over reckless driving and pedestrian safety in the city’s busy corridors, with police underscoring that the loss of life was entirely preventable.
