By Online Reporter
Bulawayo was rocked by tragedy on Wednesday night after a commuter omnibus veered off the road and crashed into vendors at the busy intersection of Sixth Avenue and Lobengula Street, killing two people and injuring several others.
Police confirmed that the fatal accident claimed the lives of Christopher Mukuwapasi and Lizwe Ncube, both male adults believed to be in their late 30s.
The two died on the spot and their bodies were taken to United Bulawayo Hospitals for post-mortem examinations.
According to Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the Toyota Hiace kombi was being driven by Simbarashe Chokumanyara (28), a resident of Emakhandeni suburb.
The vehicle was travelling west along Sixth Avenue carrying 18 passengers when the driver allegedly lost control.
“The vehicle swerved to the left and struck 14 pedestrians who were either standing or walking near the roadside close to OK Godini,” said Insp Msebele.
Twelve other victims sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital for medical treatment. Emergency services attended the scene, while police immediately launched investigations.
Preliminary investigations point to excessive speeding and failure to keep a proper lookout as the cause of the crash. As a result, the driver has been charged with culpable homicide.
Inspector Msebele urged motorists to exercise caution at all times, particularly in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. She also warned against speeding and reckless driving.
She further called on public service vehicle owners to ensure they employ properly licensed and experienced drivers, while passengers were advised to use designated pick-up and drop-off points to reduce road accidents.
More updates are expected as investigations continue.
National
