Harare – Award-winning Zimbabwean musician Gift Kudakwashe Hombarume, widely known as Chillmaster, is facing serious legal repercussions following a road accident in the Hopley area that resulted in the death of a pedestrian. The “Horror” hitmaker now faces a culpable homicide charge, casting a shadow over his promising career and leaving a family in mourning.
The incident occurred in Hopley, a high-density suburb of Harare, under circumstances that are still under investigation. While details remain scarce, close sources have indicated that the accident involved Chillmaster’s vehicle and a pedestrian, who tragically lost their life as a result of the collision.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, unconfirmed reports emerged late last night suggesting that Chillmaster may not have possessed a valid driver’s licence at the time of the accident. This speculation arose from his alleged failure to produce a licence at the scene, although there remains a possibility that he is licensed but simply did not have the physical document in his possession.
As of late last night, police had yet to receive a formal report on the incident, but the matter is undoubtedly being treated with the utmost seriousness. Meanwhile, Chillmaster’s team is reportedly working diligently to address the situation and cooperate with the authorities.
Despite the swirling speculation and legal challenges, Chillmaster has taken to social media to express his profound remorse and extend his condolences to the family of the deceased. In a heartfelt statement, he acknowledged the gravity of the situation and pledged his full cooperation with the investigation.
“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I address you today,” Chillmaster wrote. “Earlier today, I was involved in a devastating car accident that resulted in the loss of a precious life. Words cannot express the depth of my grief, remorse, and sympathy for the individual who passed away, their family, and loved ones.”
He continued, “I am fully cooperating with authorities on this tragedy, and I will continue to do so transparently. Right now, my focus is on respecting the privacy of the grieving family and supporting them in any way possible during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Chillmaster also expressed a deep sense of responsibility for the pain caused by the accident. “There is no justification for the pain this has caused,” he stated. “I take full responsibility for my actions and will carry the weight of this loss with me for the rest of my life.”
The musician further pleaded for forgiveness, acknowledging that it may not be readily granted. “I ask for forgiveness, though I understand it may never come, and I vow to honour the memory of the life lost through reflection, accountability, and actions that align with the gravity of this moment,” he wrote.
Out of respect for the grieving family and the ongoing legal process, Chillmaster has stated that he will refrain from making further public comments on the matter. “Out of respect for the family and the ongoing legal process, I will not be commenting further publicly. I humbly ask for privacy for all affected as we navigate this tragedy,” he said.
He concluded his statement by thanking his fans and supporters for their understanding during this difficult time. “To my fans and supporters, thank you for your understanding as I step back to reflect, grieve, and focus on doing what is right. Please hold the victim and their loved ones in your hearts. With deepest humility,” he wrote.
Beyond the culpable homicide charge, Chillmaster could also face a separate charge of driving without a valid licence, should the allegations prove true. According to Section 6(5) of the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11], this offence carries a penalty of a fine not exceeding level six (currently US$300) or imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year, or both.
In Zimbabwe, the legal consequences of causing death through negligence while driving without a licence can be severe. Culpable homicide, as defined in Section 49 of the Criminal Law Codification & Reform Act, involves causing the death of another person through negligence, either by failing to be aware that one’s actions might result in death, or by failing to guard against the possibility of death when one perceives that it might occur.
The penalties for culpable homicide are substantial, including imprisonment for life or any definite period, a fine up to or exceeding level 14 (currently pegged at $5 000), or both. The court has the discretion to determine the appropriate sentence based on the specific circumstances of the case.
