A tragic incident at Hwange Truck Stop has left the trucking community torn, after a driver was convicted of culpable homicide for unknowingly running over a man who was sleeping under his parked rig.
Tavonga Ticharwa (43), a coal hauler from Gokwe, was fined US$400 or sentenced to six months behind bars if he defaults, for causing the death of an unidentified pedestrian last November.
He had briefly stopped his Freightliner on his way to Bulawayo and, after relieving himself, drove off – unaware that someone had crawled underneath the trailer to sleep.
The man was crushed by the truck’s rear wheels and died instantly.
Police noted blood stains on the left outer rear axles, confirming the tragic accident.
A post-mortem was conducted at United Bulawayo Hospitals.
Now here’s the debate: Should Ticharwa be blamed for something he didn’t – and realistically couldn’t – see? Or is it just a painful reminder of why every driver must make it second nature to check under and around their truck before pulling away?
The court found him negligent for failing to do a proper walk-around inspection.
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And while that may sound harsh to some, the law is clear – drivers are responsible for ensuring the space around their vehicles is safe before any manoeuvre.
In reality, this situation is more common than we think.
Homeless individuals, hitchhikers, or even reckless pedestrians often use trucks for shade or shelter, especially at busy stops like Hwange.
This case shouldn’t just end at a conviction – it should be a wake-up call for every driver out there.
That 30-second walk-around could save a life and your career.
What do you think, Mzansi? Was the court too harsh on Ticharwa, or is this a necessary standard to keep us all in check? Let’s talk.
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