Veteran broadcaster Tichafa Augustine Matambanadzo, popularly known as Tich Mataz, appeared in court on Tuesday facing a culpable homicide charge linked to a fatal road accident that occurred in Harare in 2024.
The 56-year-old was brought before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai, where he was not required to enter a plea. He was summoned to court, and bail was not considered. The case has been postponed to May 19, when the trial is expected to begin.
According to prosecutor Charlotte Gomani, the incident took place on July 27, 2024. It is alleged that Matambanadzo was driving a Toyota Hilux westbound along Samora Machel Avenue, carrying three passengers, when he hit a pedestrian near Odzi Flats in Eastlea.
The victim, 44-year-old Daniel Uchena, was reportedly walking south along the ರಸ್ತೆ when he was struck by the vehicle’s front right side. He fell onto the road and suffered severe internal injuries, although no obvious external wounds were observed.
Uchena was rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The vehicle involved in the crash is said to have sustained damage to its front right bumper, and its windscreen was shattered.
Prosecutors allege that Matambanadzo acted negligently by failing to maintain proper vigilance, not taking appropriate action to avoid the collision, and driving at an unsafe speed.
