Driver Charged with Culpable Homicide Over Death of Priest Chikuni

Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo

Herald Correspondent

A 22-year-old driver has been charged with culpable homicide after a road traffic accident that claimed the life of Roman Catholic priest, Father Regis Chikuni, in Harare last month.

The accused, Sean Gamu Makoni, was driving a Honda Fit southwards along Prince Edward Road when he struck Father Chikuni at around 2.37am on August 29 at the intersection with Samora Machel Avenue.

According to police, Father Chikuni, believed to be aged between 50 and 55, was attempting to cross Prince Edward Road when he was hit. He sustained severe head injuries and fractures to both legs and died at the scene.

Police said Makoni, who had no passengers in the vehicle, is assisting with investigations. The Honda Fit sustained damage to the front bumper, left headlamp, bonnet and windscreen and was later taken to the Vehicle Inspection Department in Eastlea for inspection.

Father Chikuni’s body was taken to the Parirenyatwa Hospital mortuary. He was identified on September 9 by a colleague, Father Prince Murungweni, who told police that Father Chikuni had been missing since around 5pm on August 28.

The priest’s next of kin, Ngonidzashe Chikuni, was subsequently notified.

Police confirmed that Makoni has been charged with culpable homicide and investigations are ongoing.