Jaw-Dropping Violence: 16-Year-Old Arrested for Killing Another Teenager with a Punch in Plumtree
Mapulula Village in Plumtree, was met with a devastiting incident, when a 16-year-old boy got arrested for killing another teenager with a single punch to the jaw.
A Fatal Blow and Tragic Consequences
According to reports, the victim suffered a fatal head injury after falling and striking his head on a tarred road following the forceful punch. The incident has sent shockwaves through Plumtree.
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Magistrate’s Concern and Call to Action
During the teenager’s court appearance, Magistrate Joshua Nembaware expressed grave concern about the rising rate of youth-related incidents. He emphasized the urgent collaboration of stakeholders i.e parents, religious leaders, and community members to tackle this alarming trend.
Legal Proceedings and Remand
The accused teenager, whose identity is protected due to legal reasons, was not required to enter a plea and was remanded out of custody until 17 June. This allows for further investigation and proceedings to take place.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The circumstances surrounding the incident unfolded on 1 October the previous year, around 1 am. The victim, accompanied by Blessing Moyo, was walking home from Mqegula Business Centre when they encountered the accused, who was walking in the same direction.
A Heated Argument and Fatal Assault
A heated argument erupted between the victim and the accused, leading Blessing to leave them behind. It was during this altercation that the accused allegedly struck the victim once in the left jaw with a powerful punch, followed by a head-butt to the forehead.
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Unconscious on the Roadside
As a result of the assault, the victim fell unconscious onto the tarred road, landing on his back. Shockingly, the accused left the victim unconscious on the road and returned home.
Discovery and Desperate Attempts to Save a Life
Around 3 am, a passerby noticed the unconscious victim lying on the road and, assuming he was intoxicated, helped him off the road. Later that morning, two security guards returning home from Mqegula Business Centre discovered the victim lying unconscious by the roadside. They promptly informed the victim’s family, who rushed to the scene and arranged transportation to Izimnyama Clinic.
Tragic Outcome and Legal Action
Due to the severity of his condition, the victim was referred to Plumtree District Hospital and subsequently to Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo. However, despite efforts to save his life, the victim tragically passed away on 7 October. The incident was reported to the police, leading to the arrest of the accused teenager.