Tragedy Strikes: Hit-and-Run Claims Young Father’s Life

Tomasi Waimuka’s heartache deepened when he learned that his son, Aporosa Momo, had been a victim of a hit-and-run accident early Saturday morning on Drasa Avenue in Lautoka. Momo, only 26 years old, was discovered by a passerby who quickly took him to Lautoka Hospital, but he was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.

Waimuka, a resident of Nasowata Settlement in Navutu, recounted the events leading up to the tragedy. After returning from a funeral on Friday, Momo had informed his father that he would be visiting relatives later that night. A few hours later, Waimuka was awakened by his nephews bearing the tragic news of Momo’s accident. “I had only wished to see him alive with just a minor injury,” he reflected, expressing his disbelief when he arrived at the scene and saw his son’s covered body. Momo leaves behind two young children, adding to the family’s profound loss.

In addition to Momo’s death, a second accident occurred shortly after midnight on Friday, taking the life of 38-year-old Nadi businessman Ronesh Chand. According to police reports, Chand lost control of his vehicle while driving towards Nadi, resulting in the crash. He was accompanied by three passengers who were taken to Lautoka Hospital; while two remain in stable condition, one was discharged.

As the community mourns these tragedies, Senior Superintendent of Police Mitieli Divuana confirmed that investigations are underway regarding both accidents. He noted that the current road death toll stands at 50, a decrease from 71 at the same time last year, suggesting a potential improvement in road safety.

The stories of Momo and Chand serve as sobering reminders of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance on the streets. Though their families are facing unimaginable sorrow, there is hope that increased awareness and safety measures can help prevent future tragedies.

This article highlights the impact of road fatalities on families and communities, underscoring the continued need for vigilance on the roads and effective measures to enhance safety.