AN eight-month old baby from Chiredzi was killed on Monday and her mother seriously injured when a tree fell onto their house during a heavy thunder storm, police said. Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Peter Zhanero confirmed the incident.

Insp Zhanero said Ratidzo Rushinga (26) of house number G9 Section 11 Hippo Valley Estates, Chiredzi, and nine other people were sitting in a room when a big tree fell on the rooftop at around 4.30pm.

"Junior Mugova (8 months) was struck on the forehead by a falling branch and died instantly.

"Ratidzo, who sustained serious injuries, was ferried to Chiredzi General Hospital," he said.

"No foul play is suspected as there have been incessant rains characterised by violent and strong winds which might have uprooted the tree," he added.

Insp Zhanero urged people to cut down trees near buildings.

New Ziana