By Nyasha Chuma
HARARE — A speeding commuter omnibus crashed into a residential house in the Mushayabande area of Glen Norah on Friday, causing extensive structural damage in what authorities have described as a freak accident linked to distracted driving.
According to eyewitnesses, the white kombi was travelling at high speed when the driver reportedly lost control while using a mobile phone. The vehicle veered off the road and rammed into the front section of the house, shattering the lower wall beneath a large front window.
No casualties or fatalities were reported from either the vehicle or inside the residence.
Residents said they were shocked by the freak turn of events, which happened in a matter of seconds.
“The kombi just came straight off the road and hit the house. We thank God no one was inside that room,” one eyewitness said.
Police and local authorities have in the past warned motorists against speeding and the use of cellphones while driving, both of which are cited in the preliminary assessment of the incident.
Cellphone distraction: The driver (ticked in green) allegedly lost control of the vehicle after being hooked on the cellphone
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has urged drivers to exercise caution and avoid distractions on the road to prevent similar occurrences.
The homeowner is yet to quantify the extent of the damage.
