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The late Mpilo Mpofu

Molline Gagare Chronicle Reporter
ONE person suffered multiple fractures and died on the spot while another was seriously injured when a Mazda B1600 crushed them against a Honda Oddesy that they were pushing along the Bulawayo Gweru Highway on Sunday.

Mpilo Mpofu, 32, died on the spot while Pedzisai Mhike, 38, suffered a broken ankle in the accident that occurred near Shangani Business centre, about 90 kilometres from Bulawayo at about 9PM.

Relatives said Mpofu’s body was pinned against the car he was pushing and dragged for almost 100 metres.

The two were part of four villagers who were asked by a police officer to assist in pushing his vehicle that had run out of fuel just after Shangani Mine turn-off.

Ian Mpofu, Mpilo’s uncle, said his nephew suffered multiple fractures on his legs, spine, arms and head when the vehicle rammed into them.

“We are still to come to terms with this horrific accident. Two people that were also pushing the car managed to jump to safety. My nephew was unlucky. His friend Pedzisai is at Gweru General Hospital after sustaining a broken ankle,” said Mpofu.

He said he knew the police officer only as Alfera.

Mpofu said the drivers of both vehicles were taken by the police.

He said he suspected the driver of the Mazda vehicle was either drunk or had fallen asleep at the wheel.

He said the driver should have been able to see Mhike who was wearing a reflective jacket or the car’s hazards which were flashing.

Mpilo’s family said he is likely to be buried tomorow.

TSCZ spokesperson Ernest Muchena said it was ill-advised to push a car on a highway, especially at night.