adminAbel Zhakata – Zimpapers Online Reporter
A YOUNG Mutare businesswoman was killed on the spot together with her five months-old baby and a maid in a horror road accident that occurred Wednesday at the 95km peg along the Mutare-Masvingo Highway.Chiedza Mutisi Murikwa who ran clothing boutiques in the city was traveling from Mutare to Masvingo for her brother’s wedding when she lost control of the Honda Fit which had five passengers on board.
The vehicle subsequently veered off the road, hit a tree and landed on its wheels. It was a sorry sight as the vehicle broke into pieces with the engine plucking off the frame. Manicaland police spokesman Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa said all the five occupants were trapped in the vehicle.
“The driver and two other passengers died on the spot while those injured were taken to Nyanyadzi Rural District Hospital,” he said.
Relatives who spoke with survivors said the vehicle developed mechanical problems along the way before the tragic incident.
“Just after 22 Miles they stopped the vehicle after it started behaving weirdly. They checked around but they could not diagnose anything. Before they resumed with their journey they prayed. After driving for some kilometers the defect propped up again and they stopped but later continued with the journey.
“When tragedy struck the driver is said to have told the passengers to calm down saying she will control the vehicle to safety but that was not to be,” said a relative who refused to be named.
Inspector Kakohwa urged drivers not to take risks on the highways. He said drivers should park on the roadside in the event that vehicles develop faults or are suffering from fatigue.
“We have to observe road rules in order to stay alive. We urge passengers to voice concerns when drivers exhibit bad behavior because it is their lives at risk. We also urge people to plan journeys on time to avoid speeding,” he said.
Online Reporter