Four people have been confirmed dead whilst two others have sustained injuries of various degrees after they were hit by a vehicle on Wednesday night near Tikumphire Lodge in Chibavi Township within Mzuzu City.

Confirming the incident on Thursday, Public Relations Officer for Northern Region Police Headquarters, Maurice Chapola said the driver, Pililani Mhango aged 29, was driving a Ford Ranger cabin pickup, registration number NN 8420 lost control of the vehicle and rammed into the six pedestrians.

“Mhango was driving from the direction of St John of God Hospital heading to Chibavi Market and upon and reaching near Tikumphire Lodge, he lost control of the vehicle due to over speeding and ended up hitting the people,” said Chapola.

Chapola said four people who have died, include a one-year-old child who sustained head injuries and were confirmed dead upon arrival at Mzuzu Central Hospital whilst the other two are receiving treatment at the facility after sustaining minor injuries.

Meanwhile, police have impounded the vehicle and arrested the driver, who has since been charged with causing death by reckless driving, contrary to Section 126 of the Road Traffic Act and will appear before court soon.

Police are yet to establish particulars of the deceased and those who are hospitalised.