Dad kills 7-month-old baby while reversing car at home

by Staff reporter


The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating a case of culpable homicide in Chitungwiza after a 44-year-old man allegedly ran over his seven-month-old baby while reversing his vehicle.

The suspect, Elton Muvirimi of Unit D, Seke, is alleged to have reversed his Toyota Wish on Thursday afternoon without noticing that the infant was playing beneath the vehicle.


Harare provincial police spokesperson, Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the incident, describing it as a tragic case of negligence.

Police say the vehicle had been parked at the family home on April 30 when the baby was left playing outside. At around 1600 hours, Muvirimi reportedly entered the vehicle, started it, and began reversing without checking underneath.

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"The infant sustained severe head injuries and died on the spot," Chakanza said.

He added that the matter was reported to ZRP Chitungwiza Traffic at around 1800 hours. The vehicle was later taken for inspection at the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) in Chitungwiza, while the child's body was taken to Chitungwiza Central Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.

Muvirimi is facing charges under Section 49(a)(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act for culpable homicide. Police also noted that he had not yet produced a valid driver's licence at the time of the incident.

Authorities have urged motorists to always check surroundings before moving vehicles, especially in residential areas, to prevent similar tragedies.

"We urge drivers to ensure they inspect their surroundings before reversing," Chakanza said, adding that investigations are continuing.