HARARE – Rising musician Gift Hombarume popularly known as Chillmaster has escaped jail after he was handed a wholly suspended two-year jail sentence and fined US$200 for running over and killing a pedestrian.
Hombarume was convicted of driving without a driver’s licence and for culpable homicide by Mbare magistrate Tatenda Mukurunge.
For the first count he was fined US$200.
For culpable homicide the magistrate sentenced him to two years before she suspended 12 months on condition that he does not commit a similar offence within five years.
The remaining 12 months were suspended on condition that he performs community service at Stoneridge Primary School.
Hombarume fatally hit Custon Charumbira on April 9 while driving along New Chitungwiza Road.
The family of Charumbira fought in his corner telling the court in the victim impact statement that they had already forgiven him.
Lucia Charumbira also told court that the musician supported the family with everything during his funeral.
The magistrate took this into consideration while handing down her sentence.
She said Hombarume was a first time offender who has shown remorse.
“The family through Lucia Charumbira said he has undertaken to pay some beasts to avoid avenging spirits. He also undertook to send the deceased’s children to school and also to buy monthly groceries,” said the magistrate.
The court heard Hombarume pledged to pay school fees for Charumbira’s children until they finish their education.
