Antony Chawagarira
CHIKOMBEDZI — A tragic accident struck Monday afternoon at Chikombedzi Crossing on the Mwenezi River, when a Chief’s vehicle carrying five passengers was swept away by powerful floodwaters after attempting to cross a submerged bridge.
Police confirmed the incident that occurred at approximately 4 p.m. following heavy flooding in the area.
The vehicle involved, a Toyota D4D (Direct Injection 4 Cylinder Common Rail Diesel Engine), was registered to Chief Mpapa (born Hanyani Zava), who was installed as chief on 20 August 2023.
According to witnesses, the Chief’s son was driving as the group headed to Masukwe. Despite the bridge being visibly covered by water from the swollen river, they attempted the crossing.
Eyewitness accounts and photographs from the scene showed several people struggling in the fast-flowing water near the bridge. Reports indicate the vehicle was swept away by strong currents as it entered the flooded crossing, eventually being engulfed by the river.
While some occupants managed to escape, an elderly man identified as Makusha of Pfumari Village reportedly died at the scene. Rescuers said he had already passed away and was too heavy to remove from the swift current; his body is believed to have been carried away by the river.
Authorities have repeatedly warned residents against crossing flooded rivers or submerged bridges during periods of heavy rainfall, emphasising the dangers posed by strong currents.
At the time of publication, the families involved had not officially confirmed all details surrounding the incident. Further updates are expected as investigations continue.
