Two American nationals have died in a head-on collision between a Toyota Fortuner and a Hino Ranger along the Great North Road in Zimba district, with preliminary police investigations indicating that an improper overtaking maneuver triggered the fatal crash.
The two deceased, Richard Gill and James Mynaugh, both aged 67 and citizens of the United States of America, died at the scene of the accident, which occurred at about 17:40 hours on Tuesday 20th October 2026 at Sky Layby, approximately 10 kilometres south of Zimba town.
Southern Province Commanding Officer, Moono Namalongo, said in a statement issued to ZANIS today that eight other people sustained injuries in the accident and were referred to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.
Mr Namalongo said the accident involved a Toyota Fortuner, registration number BBA 4312, and a Hino Ranger, registration number CAC 4185.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the accident occurred when the driver of the Hino Ranger attempted to overtake improperly while travelling uphill, resulting in a collision with the oncoming Toyota Fortuner.
“The accident occurred when the driver of the Hino Ranger attempted to overtake improperly while travelling uphill, resulting in a collision with the Toyota Fortuner,” Mr Namalongo said.
He said the two American nationals, who were passengers in the Toyota Fortuner, sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene adding that their bodies have since been deposited at Zimba Mission Hospital mortuary, where they are awaiting post-mortem examinations.
The Toyota Fortuner was being driven by 47-year-old Michael Namafente of Highlands, Livingstone, who was travelling from north to south at the time of the accident.
Mr Namafente sustained injuries and complained of pain in his legs and general body pains and was referred to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital for further medical attention.
Another passenger in the Toyota Fortuner, identified as Laston Muzandu of Livingstone, also sustained injuries and complained of general body pains adding that was similarly referred to the hospital for treatment.
The Hino Ranger was being driven by 42-year-old, Humphrey Kanyamuna, of Ngwenya Compound in Livingstone, who was travelling from south to north who sustained injuries and complained of backache before being referred to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital.
Four male passengers were also on board the Hino Ranger 42-year-old Elijah Simusamba of Ngwenya Compound, Livingstone, who sustained a fractured left thigh and complained of general body pains.
The other passengers were Laston Mweene of Livingstone, who complained of general body pains; 32-year-old Herbert Simaundu of Simango Village, Livingstone, who also complained of general body pains; and 30-year-old Mulako Liwakala, also of Simango Village, who complained of pain in his left leg and general body pains.
All four passengers were referred to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.
Both vehicles sustained extensive damage to their front sections, according to the police statement.
Mr Namalongo urged motorists to exercise caution when overtaking, particularly on uphill sections and in areas where visibility is limited.
“Drivers are reminded to ensure that the road ahead is clear and that overtaking can be completed safely before attempting the maneuver,” he said.
Mr Namalongo emphasised the need for motorists to make responsible decisions on the road and avoid dangerous overtaking maneuvers that could result in fatal collisions.
The accident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with improper overtaking, especially on busy highways where vehicles travelling in opposite directions may have limited time and space to avoid a collision.
Police have urged drivers to remain vigilant and prioritise the safety of all road users by observing traffic regulations and ensuring that overtaking is undertaken only when conditions permit it to be completed safely.
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