Chillmaster Back in Court After High Court Reopens Culpable Homicide Case
Popular musician Kudakwashe Gift Hombarume, better known as Chillmaster, could be facing a harsher sentence after the High Court sent his culpable homicide case back to the Mbare Magistrates Court for a fresh look.
Judge President Mary Zimba-Dube said the original sentence had serious flaws and failed to deal with key legal requirements. The court has 30 days to reassess his culpability in the deadly road accident.
Fatal accident and initial sentence
The case stems from an incident on April 9, 2025, when Chillmaster, driving without a licence, lost control of his vehicle along New Chitungwiza Road and hit pedestrian Custon Charumbira, killing him.
The 24-year-old admitted to speeding, failing to control his car, and not keeping a proper lookout. In May, Magistrate Tatenda Mukurunge fined him US$200 for driving without a licence and sentenced him to two years in prison for culpable homicide — with the entire term suspended, half for good behaviour and half on the condition that he complete 420 hours of community service at Stoneridge Primary School.
Judge says negligence was downplayed
Justice Dube said the trial magistrate treated Chillmaster’s negligence as “ordinary” when the facts showed it was far more serious. She noted he was unlicensed, speeding between 80 and 100 km/h in a 60 zone, and only stopped 67 metres after hitting the victim.
According to the judge, these were aggravating factors that made community service an inappropriate punishment.
“The aggravating features of this case do not justify community service,” said Justice Dube. “The accused’s manner of driving exhibited gross negligence, and the offence was committed in aggravating circumstances. Courts must send a strong warning to offenders who drive without licences resulting in fatalities.”
One factor that appeared to sway the original sentence was the victim’s family asking for leniency. They told the court Chillmaster had supported them financially after the accident, even giving them livestock to appease vengeful spirits.
Justice Dube said while such gestures were commendable, they could not erase the seriousness of the offence.
“A victim impact statement cannot trump the interests of justice,” said Justice Dube. “While the accused rendered substantial assistance to the family of the deceased, courts should not allow offenders to buy their way out of custodial sentences.”
The judge also faulted the magistrate for failing to consider banning Chillmaster from driving, a step required by law in fatal accidents caused by drivers. She said such a ban would help deter similar offences and encourage respect for road safety rules.
The case will now return to the magistrate’s court for a new inquiry into the degree of negligence, a decision on whether Chillmaster should be prohibited from driving, and a revised sentence that aligns with the law.
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The post Chillmaster Back in Court After High Court Reopens Culpable Homicide Case appeared first on iHarare News.
