Two pedestrians have died after a detached coal wagon ran uncontrolled for several kilometres before striking them near Kafue Bridge yesterday morning.
Zambia Police Service Public Relations Officer Godfrey Chilabi confirmed the fatal incident in a statement, saying it involved Goods Train No. 526 hauled by Locomotive No. 2601 with 20 coal wagons.
According to preliminary reports, the train experienced an accidental wagon parting at approximately 09:30 hours on 20th June 2026 while moving along the Chipongwe and Lilayi section in Lusaka.
“The last loaded coal wagon became detached and proceeded to run uncontrolled in the southern direction,” Mr Chilabi stated.
Mr Chilabi said the runaway wagon passed through Chipongwe Station and continued towards Kafue before coming to a stop between the Kafue and Nega-Nega section.
He stated that tragically, the wagon hit two pedestrians shortly before Kafue Bridge, killing them on the spot.
“The deceased have been identified as Queeniva Musonda, 32, of Lumumba Compound, Kafue, who is believed to have been vending at the bridge area and Dyson Simpamba, 58, also of Kafue,” he added
Mr Chilabi said preliminary findings suggest the individuals were walking within the railway reserve strip adjacent to the line.
“Upon noticing the approaching wagon, they are reported to have attempted to cross the track but were unable to do so safely,” he said.
He further said that physical inspection revealed multiple severe injuries consistent with being hit by a moving railway wagon and the bodies have been deposited at Kafue General Hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem.
Mr Chilabi indicated that Zambia Police Service and Zambia Railways Limited have instituted investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the cause of the wagon parting.
The two institutions extended sincere condolences to the bereaved families.
“Further information will be communicated as investigations progress,” Mr Chilabi added.
He emphasised that railway authorities have repeatedly warned the public against walking, vending, or crossing in undesignated areas within the railway reserve strip due to the risk of such incidents.
Theres no such thing as “accidental wagon parting”.
It was caused by negligence. The cause needs to be found and fixed
They want to escape responsibility these careless Zambians