Man Slumps, Dies in Court Moments Before Sentencing

A man awaiting sentencing on a negligent driving charge in Rusape, Zimbabwe, collapsed and died in court last week, leaving his case unresolved.

Blessing Kalatala, who had earlier pleaded guilty to the charge, fell ill on Friday as Magistrate Babra Mateko was preparing to deliver his sentence. Court officials immediately rushed him to Rusape Remand Prison for medical attention, but he passed away later that evening.

Kalatala’s case arose from a traffic accident on the Harare–Mutare Road in October 2024. Prosecutor Faith Mutukwa told the court that Kalatala, driving a Toyota Hiace minibus, made a right-hand turn into the path of an oncoming Nissan AD Van near the 192-kilometre peg in Nyazura. The Nissan, driven by Linah Makufa and carrying three passengers, was involved in a collision that caused significant damage to both vehicles and left several people injured. Among the injured were Estela Salina Sadombo and Lonah Madlayo, who required medical treatment.

The Vehicle Inspection Department assessed the vehicles, noting damage to the left front passenger door of the Toyota Hiace and severe frontal damage to the Nissan van. These findings were key pieces of evidence, and Kalatala had admitted fault.

Court officials described the incident as “very distressing,” with one noting that the collapse happened suddenly during proceedings and that immediate medical care was the priority. Authorities have referred the matter for further investigation to determine the exact cause of death.