Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura
AN unidentified man from Bulawayo was fatally struck by a speeding kombi while attempting to cross Khami Road, in a hit-and-run incident.
The driver initially fled the scene before returning and disguising as a witness to evade arrest.
Deputy Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, said the incident occurred on Tuesday at around 7 PM.
“We are investigating a fatal road traffic accident near the Khami Road flyover, where one person was killed. The driver, Bhekinkosi Sibanda (35) from Pumula North, Bulawayo, was driving a Toyota Hiace with eight passengers on board when he hit the deceased,” she said.
Asst Insp Ndlovu said the victim, believed to be around 40 years old, was attempting to cross the road when he fell in the middle of the lane and was run over.
“The deceased sustained multiple fractures and severe head injuries and died on the spot and the body was taken to the United Bulawayo Hospitals for a post mortem,” she said.
At the time, another Toyota Hiace with four passengers was travelling in the same direction. Its driver slowed upon noticing the body but was then rear-ended by another vehicle, a Toyota Alex driven by 19-year-old Dumile Ndlovu, causing the Hiace to overturn. Two passengers sustained minor bruises.
Sibanda later returned to the scene, posing as a witness. Investigations revealed that his vehicle had a shattered windscreen, a damaged front left side mirror and blood stains, leading to his arrest on culpable homicide charges.
“As per investigations, the accident was caused by speeding and failure to keep a proper lookout by Sibanda. Dumile Ndlovu is being charged with negligent driving for rear-ending the Hiace,” said Asst Insp Ndlovu.
“As police, we continue to urge drivers to exercise caution and render assistance in accidents instead of fleeing. We are also appealing to anyone with a missing relative to visit the United Bulawayo Hospital or the nearest police station for body identification.”
