Motorist killed in Bulawayo after truck carrying 4,000 chickens collides

Accident scene

BULAWAYO — A motorist was killed early on Saturday morning after a truck transporting thousands of live chickens collided with his Toyota Passo at a busy intersection in Northend, police and emergency services said. The crash occurred at about 5:40 AM at the junction of Robert Mugabe Way and Heathfield Road. Witnesses described a severe impact that left the smaller vehicle extensively damaged. The driver of the Toyota Passo was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police and members of the Bulawayo Fire and Ambulance Services attended the scene to manage the wreckage, clear the road, and assist with traffic control. The truck was carrying an estimated 4,000 live chickens, which complicated recovery and clean‑up operations.

Authorities said it was not immediately clear whether any other people were injured. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.

Investigation and traffic implications

• Collision site: Robert Mugabe Way and Heathfield Road, Northend, Bulawayo.

• Estimated cargo: About 4,000 live chickens on the truck.

• Immediate actions: Police are investigating the cause of the crash and will examine vehicle condition, driver statements, and any available witness accounts or CCTV footage.

• Traffic impact: The intersection was temporarily disrupted while emergency teams cleared the scene.

Police urged anyone who witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage to come forward to assist investigations.

Safety note

Large cargo loads, especially live animals, can present additional hazards in road accidents, including debris, animal escape, and extended clean‑up times. Road users are reminded to exercise caution at busy intersections and to report dangerous driving or overloaded vehicles to traffic authorities.

Bulawayo truck chickens collision 2026