City of Harare to provide free graves and coffins for the four toddlers who suffocated in a parked car

ZIMSPHERE

HARARE – In a heart-wrenching incident, four toddlers lost their lives on Thursday in Hopley, Harare, after they suffocated in a non-running vehicle.

Four children suffocate in parked car in Harare

The victims, identified as Allen Busiri (3), Anotidaishe Mutize (4), Ashley Matowe (3), and Kudzaishe Tsuro (3), were last seen playing in the street on the afternoon of February 15, 2024.

According to National Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, "The four juveniles opened the rear passenger door of a black Toyota Chaser motor vehicle, registration number ADE 2684 (non-runner). They went in and closed the door.

The vehicle which has tinted windows was parked at a house in Hopely Zone 1, Harare between 12 noon and 1900 hours."

The children, unnoticed by adults, locked themselves inside the car as temperatures soared to 29°C. Their lifeless bodies were discovered in the vehicle at 7pm.

In response to the tragedy, Mayor Cllr Jacob Mafume, along with the Councillors, Town Clerk, Management, and staff, expressed their deepest condolences to the bereaved families. "May their souls rest in eternal peace," the Mayor said.

The City, in a compassionate gesture, has pledged to provide free graves for the toddlers, and four coffins through HMMAS. Additionally, the City has also provided firewood and part of the food for the funeral.

Ward 35 Harare South Councillor Everjoice Kamusikiri stated that the funeral will be held at one house for logistical ease and to honor the close friendship and familial ties among the children.