Chillmaster Still in Hot Water for Killing Pedestrian: High Court to Review Zimdancehall Star’s Sentence
Zimdancehall artist Chillmaster may not be out of the woods yet. The High Court is set to review the sentence he received after being convicted of culpable homicide for fatally hitting a pedestrian while driving without a licence.
The accident happened on 9 April 2025 along New Chitungwiza Road and claimed the life of 50-year-old Custon Charumbira. Chillmaster, whose real name is Gift Hombarume, was reportedly driving without a valid driver’s licence when the tragic incident occurred.
He was later convicted and sentenced by Magistrate Tatenda Mukurunge to two years in prison. One year was suspended on condition that he perform community service at Stoneridge Primary School. The second year was also suspended, provided he doesn’t commit a similar offence within five years. He was also fined US$200 for driving without a licence.
Now, Judge President Mary Zimba-Dube will lead the High Court’s review of that sentence. The review falls under Section 58(3)(b) of the Magistrates Court Act, which allows for higher scrutiny of decisions to ensure they meet the standards of “real and substantial justice.”
The key question for the court is whether the sentence was fair and balanced, especially given the seriousness of the offence.
Despite the loss of their loved one, the Charumbira family has chosen to forgive Chillmaster. In a victim impact statement, they acknowledged his remorse and the steps he’s taken to make things right.
Family spokesperson Lucia Charumbira said the musician went beyond just apologising. He helped with funeral costs, offered cattle in line with cultural customs as compensation, and promised to take care of the children Custon Charumbira left behind, including paying school fees and monthly groceries until they complete school.
These gestures, along with his status as a first-time offender, were considered by the magistrate when passing sentence. But the High Court will now decide whether those factors were enough, or whether the sentence needs to be revisited.
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The post More Horror for Chillmaster in Cupable Homicide Case: High Court to Review Zimdancehall Star’s Sentence appeared first on iHarare News.
