The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo have launched investigations into two separate road traffic accidents that occurred on June 20, 2025 — both involving juvenile victims, one of whom tragically lost her life. The incidents have sent shockwaves across the city, prompting calls for heightened vigilance from both motorists and parents.
In a statement issued by ZRP Press and Public Relations Officer, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the police confirmed the fatalities and injuries, and emphasized the importance of road safety, particularly when children are present in or around traffic areas.
The first and most devastating of the two incidents took place in Kensington, a quiet suburb of Bulawayo. At around 8:43 AM, a 55-year-old man accidentally ran over his two-year-old daughter while reversing his Toyota Hilux double cab at their residence in Hendricourt.
According to the police report, the father was preparing to drive out when the accident occurred. After reversing from his parking spot, he moved forward without realizing the child was in front of the vehicle. The toddler was struck by the front left side of the car and run over by the front wheel.
“The now deceased sustained severe head injuries and died on the spot,” Inspector Msebele said. “Preliminary investigations suggest the driver failed to maintain a proper lookout, which directly contributed to this unfortunate incident.”
The heartbreaking accident has left the family and community reeling, with neighbors expressing disbelief over how a routine morning could end in such tragedy. The case has also reignited discussions about child safety and the need for constant supervision of toddlers in residential areas, especially around vehicles.
Two Tragic Road Accidents in One Day Rock Bulawayo: Police Urge Vigilance
Later that same day, at around 3:00 PM, a serious road traffic accident occurred along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road, near the Mbokodo abattoir, involving two Toyota Hilux vehicles and a six-year-old girl who was attempting to cross the road.
Inspector Msebele detailed the events, stating that one vehicle, driven by a 45-year-old man from Mpopoma, was heading north, while another Toyota Hilux, driven by a 53-year-old South African national, was traveling south. As the South Africa-based driver approached the child, who had wandered into the middle of his lane, he swerved in an attempt to avoid hitting her.
“In the process of avoiding the child, the driver encroached into the opposite lane, resulting in a head-on collision with the oncoming vehicle,” Msebele reported. “Fortunately, the juvenile was not struck directly by the vehicle but was shocked, fell to the ground, and sustained bruises on her forehead.”
The injured girl was rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital for medical attention. Police confirmed that no injuries were sustained by either of the drivers involved in the crash.
Following the two accidents, the Zimbabwe Republic Police have issued a strong warning and advisory to both motorists and guardians.
Inspector Msebele emphasized the need for drivers to always check around and underneath their vehicles before moving, especially when children are nearby. She also urged parents and caregivers to ensure that young children are not left unsupervised and are not allowed to cross roads on their own.
“These incidents are tragic reminders of how quickly a life can be lost due to a moment’s negligence,” she said. “We urge all drivers to maintain a proper lookout and observe all safety precautions when operating a vehicle, particularly in residential areas or school zones. We also call upon parents to take greater responsibility in monitoring the whereabouts of their children.”
The Kensington community is mourning the death of the two-year-old, with many neighbors expressing sympathy for the grieving family. Residents have also called for improved safety awareness campaigns and education for parents, particularly regarding safety protocols around vehicles.
Meanwhile, along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road, local commuters and pedestrians have urged city officials to consider installing pedestrian crossing signs or speed-reducing measures near high-traffic areas to protect children and other vulnerable road users.
As investigations into both incidents continue, police are appealing to the public to remain cautious, responsible, and mindful that road safety is a shared responsibility — whether behind the wheel or on foot.
