Zimpapers Logo

Crime Reporter
The driver of the truck that veered off the road and ran over 14 people at the Mugodhi Shrine in Hwedza, Mashonaland East on Monday is likely to be charged with 14 counts of culpable homicide, police have said.

The driver has been identified as Lovemore Musanhu (47) of Hwedza.

On Tuesday, President Mnangagwa declared the Mugodhi shrine accident, which left seven others injured, a State of Disaster. The President also sent his condolence message to the bereaved families.

The accident occurred after a truck carrying maize veered off the road and ran over the victims as they awaited transport on the roadside.

Six of the 14, who are mostly the church’s members, died on the spot while the other seven were pronounced dead on arrival at Mount St Mary’s Mission Hospital.

The injured were admitted at the same hospital. The accident occurred in the Chitope area where thousands of Mugodhi church members are gathered for their Passover celebrations.

In a statement yesterday, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the developments and said investigations were still in progress.

“Police are still conducting investigations into the accident and urges motorists to be observant on approaching built up areas,” he said.

“Meanwhile, the driver of the truck faces culpable homicide charges.”

Asst Comm Nyathi said they had identified the remaining deceased as Sheila Mukomba (23) of Shambamuto Village under Chief Nyashanu in Buhera, Isaac Paramhanzi (29) of Mahezvo Village under Chief Mutoko in Mutoko and Jennifer Chikoore (42) of Makutukutu Village under Chief Nyashanu.

The accident occurred around 11am along Hwedza-Mutiweshiri Road when a truck carrying maize side-swiped a bus which had encroached into its lane.

The lorry hit a Toyota Hilux and ran over church members who were standing by the roadside.