Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu
A BULAWAYO-BEITBRIDGE Highway trip turned into a bloodbath when a 29-year-old woman was flung out of a kombi and crushed to death after the vehicle overturned in Gwanda.
The tragic smash happened on Thursday around 5PM at the 90km peg in Stanmore area when the Toyota Hiace they were travelling in burst a tyre and rolled.
Police said the speeding vehicle, driven by Kennedy Nyawiyanga with 14 passengers on board, lost control and landed on its side.
In the chaos, Fillatha Sibanda was thrown out of the kombi, hitting the tarmac with a sickening thud. She died instantly from head injuries, leaving fellow passengers screaming in horror.
Three others were injured in the crash. They were rushed to Gwanda Provincial Hospital, while one critically hurt victim had to be transferred to Mpilo Central Hospital.
Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube confirmed the carnage.
“The rear right tyre burst and the vehicle rolled once before landing on its left side. Sadly, one passenger died on the spot after being thrown out,” she said.
The body of Sibanda was taken to Gwanda Provincial Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem.
Cops have since warned motorists to check their tyres and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before hitting the highways.
