UPDATE: Government confirms 16 dead in Toyota Quantum explosion, DNA tests to identify remains

GOVERNMENT has confirmed that 16 people died in Thursday’s horrific explosion involving a Toyota Quantum along the Bulawayo–Beitbridge Road near Esigodini, with DNA testing set to be conducted to establish the identities of the victims.

The victims were travelling from Bulawayo towards Gwanda when the vehicle exploded under circumstances that remain under investigation.

The explosion left a harrowing scene, with bodies burnt beyond recognition and others severely dismembered.

President Mnangagwa has since declared the tragedy a State of Disaster.

In a statement, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the declaration, made in terms of the Civil Protection Act, will facilitate the mobilisation of resources and coordinated support for bereaved families.

Minister Garwe confirmed the death toll and said forensic identification will be necessary due to the severity of the burns.

“The accident claimed sixteen (16) lives. Some of the bodies were burnt beyond recognition, while others were severely dismembered. This will necessitate DNA testing to positively identify the victims. This heartbreaking incident once again highlights the urgent need for strict adherence to road safety measures at all times.”

Minister Garwe said preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle, belonging to Best Care Funeral Services of South Africa, was carrying passengers and explosive material, which detonated, resulting in the fatalities.

However, authorities said the final death toll could be revised as investigations continue.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of devastation, with bodies scattered across the road and surrounding bush after the blast.

Mr Andrew Ncube, who arrived shortly after the incident, said he found some victims still alive but critically injured.

“The lady was asking for water, but she passed on before the ambulance arrived,” he said.

Emergency services, including the Bulawayo Fire Brigade, police and military units, attended the scene and cordoned off the area as investigations commenced.

Fragments suspected to be explosive material were reportedly recovered a few metres from the wreckage, reinforcing preliminary indications that hazardous cargo may have been involved.

The explosion reduced the vehicle to a burnt shell and caused visible damage to the road surface.