Toddler burnt to death in defunct vehicle

A THREE-year-old toddler from Gutu was burnt beyond recognition after he accidentally set a broken down vehicle he and his brother were playing in, alight.

Blessing Mukombe of Card Location at Mpandawana Growth Point was trapped in the vehicle while his brother escaped unhurt.

His brother rushed to inform neighbours who attended the scene but found the boy already dead.

Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Charity Mazula said the incident occurred on Saturday at around 4 PM.

She said the tot's body was taken to Gutu District Hospital mortuary for post-mortem.

"I confirm receiving a report of sudden death caused by fire involving a toddler from Gutu.

"The toddler was playing with his elder brother in a defunct vehicle after the mother, Tsitsi Ushe (25), had left them while visiting an aunt in the neighbouring location," said Insp Mazula

"While playing in the vehicle, Blessing, who had match sticks, allegedly lit some rubber from a torn car seat thereby causing an inferno which engulfed the vehicle. Sensing danger, the elder brother escaped through a broken window," she said.

Insp Mazula said neighbours rushed to the scene but they found Blessing already charred to a stump.