Speeding Magistrate who Killed toddler fined $400

A local magistrate who, in 2023, crashed a school-going toddler in a fatal road traffic accident, has been fined US$400 or sentenced to five months in prison.

The magistrate, Makunde Timeon Tavengwa (46), who is employed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), was convicted of culpable homicide when he appeared in court recently.

It is the state’s case that on 22 November 2023, Tavengwa, 46, was driving a Nissan X-Trail along the Harare-Masvingo Road when he struck Misheck Makuvire, a school pupil crossing the road.

The minor died on the spot following head injuries sustained from the accident.

According to police investigations, the accident occurred in broad daylight on a wide, tarred road.

Tavengwa was found to be negligent as he failed to keep a proper lookout and was speeding.