Zimbabwe police kill humanitarian American

Zimbabwean police have shot and killed an American on a humanitarian mission under “unclear” circumstances, the US embassy said today.

Embassy officials were travelling to the scene of Monday’s shooting to investigate the incident.

Richard Gilman, 58, a computer consultant from Connecticut, was shot near the Mozambique border after allegedly speeding away from a police roadblock, according to police and the state media.

“The circumstances of the death remain unclear,” the embassy said. “We have sent people there to talk to anyone who can help us understand what happened.”

Gilman had been visiting his brother, a teacher in the border town of Mutare, 160 miles east of Harare, where he had donated supplies and assisted with nutritional programmes at a local school.

The state-run Herald newspaper reported that an American driving a Toyota Corolla with South African licence plates was stopped at a roadblock. The man’s visa was valid until January, but the car’s temporary import permit had expired.

According to the newspaper, the American became uncooperative and drove off at high speed, forcing police in front of him to jump out of his path. One officer fired at the car’s left rear wheel.

A second bullet went through the car’s rear licence plate, ricocheted and struck Gilman in the shoulder, The Herald said.

He was taken to a local medical facility, where he died three hours later under police guard.

Police said Gilman argued with border officers about his passport and travel papers.

“He tried to run away and that’s when he was shot,” said officer John Nahanda.

Gilman’s wife, Mary, said her husband was returning from a round of golf. She said she found it difficult to believe he had argued with an authority figure in a foreign country he loved and had visited before.

Gilman arrived in Mutare about 18 days ago and was staying with his brother. The two men were donating their time to a local school.

“He went there to help children and get food,” his wife said.

While he was in Connecticut, Gilman sent food and supplies, including books and clothing, to the school at his own expense, his long-time friend Art Perret said.