Neori Vuidreketi Makoto has a heartfelt wish: for his younger brother, Semi Lete Makoto, to return home to his family.
Semi, aged 24, passed away in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Aspen Hospital in Lautoka following a tragic accident last week.
Semi was employed by Burger King at Martintar in Nadi. The accident occurred while he was riding his bike from his home in Malolo, Nadi, to work, when he was struck by a bus near his workplace.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed that the police are investigating the case.
A witness, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that the bus was traveling at high speed when it collided with the victim.
“The man was not wearing a helmet. He must have suffered a serious head injury given the distance between the point of impact and where he landed,” the witness said.
Mr. Makoto recounted that upon hearing the news of his brother being rushed to the hospital, he initially believed it was a minor injury.
“But when I arrived at the hospital, I was shocked to see his condition. He was in a coma. The entire last week, I kept visiting the ICU, hoping he would open his eyes and we could talk again,” he said. “The doctors consistently updated us on his condition until they declared him brain dead. Last week, we were told to come and say our last goodbye to him.”
“My only wish is for him to recover and take care of his small family. He has a one-year-old child.”
Mr. Makoto shared that his brother was saving money with hopes of buying land and starting a farm. As the youngest of three siblings, Semi was described as a hardworking and quiet individual.
“He didn’t speak much, but his actions spoke volumes about him. He was a dedicated worker. We were very close. I miss my brother,” Mr. Makoto added.