Kombi Driver Abandons 13-Year-Old Hit-and-Run Victim at Hospital, Flees on Foot

A tragic hit-and-run incident has claimed the life of a 13-year-old Grade 7 learner in Chitungwiza, with the driver abandoning the child’s body and the vehicle at Chitungwiza General Hospital before fleeing on foot. Police have since launched an urgent manhunt for the fugitive driver.

The accident occurred on December 15, 2024, at approximately 1:52 PM along New Chitungwiza Road. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that the vehicle involved was a Nissan Caravan kombi with registration number AGZ 0118.

In a statement released on their official social media platform, the ZRP Mbare Division provided details of the harrowing incident:
“ZRP Mbare is investigating a hit-and-run fatal road traffic accident in which a Grade 7 learner, 13, died after being hit by an unknown motorist who was driving a Nissan Caravan kombi, registration number AGZ 0118, along New Chitungwiza Road on 15 December 2024 at around 1.52 PM. The driver dumped the body and kombi at Chitungwiza Hospital and fled to an unknown destination. Anyone with information to report at any nearest police station.”

The unidentified driver’s decision to abandon the young victim without rendering assistance or notifying emergency services has drawn widespread condemnation. Authorities described the act as both callous and irresponsible.

“The driver not only violated road safety laws but showed a complete disregard for human life by leaving the scene without any attempt to help the injured child,” said a ZRP official.

The investigation remains ongoing as police intensify efforts to locate the driver. The ZRP is urging anyone with information on the driver’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station.

This incident has once again highlighted the need for responsible driving and prompt responses during road accidents. The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the driver is brought to justice and that such reckless behavior does not go unpunished.

Members of the public are encouraged to assist law enforcement by coming forward with any leads that could aid the investigation.