Man Dies On His Way To Hospital: Mourners Take Unusual Steps To Bury Him
By Staff Reporter
Shamva – What began as a desperate dash to save a life ended in tragedy and confusion after a man from Jaji Farm, died on his way to Shamva Hospital last week.
According to sources close to the incident, Motion Chihwape had fallen seriously ill and was being rushed to the hospital, in a private vehicle,when he tragically passed away before reaching the medical facility.
In a shocking twist, the people transporting him reportedly disguised his lifeless body by placing a cap and a pair of sunglasses on his face in an apparent effort to avoid drawing attention.
“They didn’t know what to do, so they just tried to make it seem like he was sleeping,” said Mangwiro Tsoka, a local who was informed of the events.
Rather than continue to Shamva, the group abruptly changed course, rerouting to Chikwaka in Goromonzi, where funeral arrangements were hastily made. The body was taken to a rural homestead for burial with limited resources and preparation.
Held with minimal ceremony,the funeral left many talking in hushed tones. “This was the cheapest funeral policy I’ve ever seen,” said Marve, a neighbour to the deceased. “No coffin, no paperwork, no proper announcement. Just a body, a cap, and a rural grave.”
While the family has not issued a public statement, community leaders are urging families to plan ahead and consider the importance of funeral preparedness. The incident has sparked debate on social circles within and beyond Chihwape village about the handling of unexpected deaths and the burden placed on those left behind.