Tich Mataz Trial Date Set: Veteran Broadcaster in Court Over Fatal Eastlea Accident

HARARE — Legendary broadcaster and entertainment mogul Augustine Tichafa Matambanadzo, known to millions as Tich Mataz, appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court yesterday to answer to charges of culpable homicide. The charges stem from a tragic road traffic accident on July 27, 2024, that resulted in the death of 44-year-old pedestrian Uchena Daniel. Appearing before Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzayi, Matambanadzo (55) was informed that his trial is officially set to commence on May 19, 2026.

According to state prosecutors, the fatal encounter occurred along Samora Machel Road near the Odzi Flats in Eastlea. Matambanadzo was reportedly behind the wheel of a Toyota Hilux, traveling westbound toward the city center with three passengers on board, when the vehicle struck Daniel as he attempted to cross the busy thoroughfare.

The impact, which occurred on the front right side of the vehicle, was severe enough to shatter the windscreen and damage the bumper. While Matambanadzo and his passengers escaped physical injury, Mr. Daniel sustained critical trauma. He was rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals but was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival.

The State’s case rests on several counts of alleged criminal negligence. Prosecutors argue that the veteran DJ failed to exercise the "duty of care" required of a motorist on one of Harare’s most active roads.

The State’s core allegations include:

• Failure to keep a proper lookout: Neglecting to monitor pedestrian movement in a high-traffic zone.

• Excessive Speed: Traveling at a velocity that prevented timely braking under the prevailing circumstances.

• Failure to Act: Neglecting to take evasive maneuvers when an accident appeared imminent.

"The accused person had no right to drive in the manner he did," the prosecution stated, characterizing the death of the Highlands resident as a "preventable accident."

Tich Mataz has been a household name in Zimbabwe and South Africa for decades, famously known for his "Midas Touch" on the airwaves. However, this legal battle marks a somber chapter in his public life.

Following the accident, the Toyota Hilux was impounded and inspected by the Vehicle Examination Department (VED) in Eastlea to determine if mechanical failure played any role. The findings of that report are expected to be a focal point when the trial opens in May. If convicted of culpable homicide under the Road Traffic Act, the broadcaster could face a range of penalties, including a fine, a suspended prison sentence, or the cancellation of his driver’s license.

Tich Mataz culpable homicide trial