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Abigail Mawonde Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe National Army has identified the pupil accidentally killed by a 12,7mm anti-aircraft gun at Delamore High School in Darwendale on Wednesday as Tawanda Masvipa (16).

Masvipa was in Form 3.

The incident occurred in the morning as pupils at Delamore High School were at the assembly.

ZNA spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Alphios Makotore said Masvipa was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

“Parachute Regiment Troops were on training at the firing range (at Inkomo Garrison) when a live round from the anti-aircraft gun flew over the bullet catch and trajected for over seven kilometres travelling towards the school where it hit the children whilst they were on school assembly at 0900 hours.”

A Form One pupil, Tinashe Awali, sustained a compound fracture on the right hand upper limb as a result of the accidental weapon discharge.

He is currently admitted at Parirenyatwa Hospital.

Masvipa’s body has since been taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital mortuary for post-mortem.

Lieutenant-Colonel Makotore said the condition of the injured pupil was satisfactory.

He said the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Zimbabwe National Army special investigation teams attended the accident scene and investigations were currently underway.

“All parents have been contacted and are with the ZRP and ZNA special investigation teams assisting with the investigations.

“(Army Commander) Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda and all members of the army regret this very unfortunate accident which happened on the last day of school and express their deepest condolences to the bereaved family,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Makotore.

He said the ZNA command element was expected to visit the school and affected families yesterday.

“The ZNA also wishes a speedy recovery to the injured victim.

“The army is assisting all the affected families to ameliorate the effects of this very unfortunate incident.”