One Dead, 17 Injured in Harare Crash After Motorist Ignores Red Light

A speeding motorist ran a red light in Harare, killing one and injuring 17 in a multi-vehicle crash that reignited calls for stricter traffic enforcement and safer city roads (image source)

HARARE — One person died and 17 others were injured in central Harare on Monday morning after a motorist allegedly ran a red light and ploughed into a commuter omnibus, setting off a multi-vehicle collision at one of the city’s busiest intersections.

The crash occurred at the junction of Samora Machel Avenue and Rekai Tangwena Road during rush hour. Witnesses said a speeding silver sedan ignored the traffic signal and smashed into a fully loaded kombi, causing it to overturn and hit two stationary vehicles waiting at the lights.

“The car came out of nowhere and hit the kombi on the side. It flipped and people were thrown out,” said a street vendor who witnessed the accident. “It was chaos — people were screaming, and some were trapped inside.”

Emergency services, including the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and City of Harare Fire Brigade, arrived swiftly. Paramedics ferried the injured to Parirenyatwa and Sally Mugabe hospitals. Police confirmed that one passenger died at the scene, while others suffered serious injuries including fractures and head trauma.

ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the driver’s arrest, saying initial investigations point to reckless driving and failure to obey traffic signals. “The motorist is in custody and assisting with investigations,” he said.

The tragedy has reignited debate over road safety in Harare, where red-light violations and speeding have become increasingly common. Road safety advocate Tawanda Moyo urged the introduction of automated enforcement systems. “We need functional traffic lights, visible policing, and camera systems to deter reckless drivers. Lives are being lost due to negligence,” he said.

The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe pledged to intensify awareness campaigns and collaborate with city authorities to improve road signage and traffic signal visibility. Families of victims have called for justice and accountability as investigations continue.

“The car came out of nowhere and hit the kombi on the side. It flipped and people were thrown out,” said a vendor at the scene.