A 21-year-old man tragically lost his life in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Isei Tamanikalou, who hailed from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans to return to Fiji National University to study engineering.
Police have confirmed that Tamanikalou was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man when it crashed on Kings Road in Naviyago, near Lautoka. His grandparents are struggling with the overwhelming grief following his untimely death, describing him as a bright and caring individual who made a positive impact on those around him.
His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, recalls their last conversation shortly before the accident. “We had just returned from church, and he mentioned he was going to visit friends in Matanagata,” she said. “He had a lot of friends in the village and enjoyed spending time with them.” That would turn out to be the last time she saw him.
His grandfather, Epitani Tabua, remembered him as a good-hearted, shy, and quiet young man. “He was happy-go-lucky and well-liked by everyone. He enjoyed helping out at home and never asked for much,” Tabua shared.
Having recently completed a certificate in electrical engineering, Tamanikalou’s family was excited about his future. “He was looking forward to returning to university and was determined to create a better life for himself. His focus was unwavering,” his grandfather stated.
A significant figure in Tamanikalou’s life was his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had adopted him as a child. “He called him ‘dad’ because they had such a strong bond,” Tabua noted. “Isei was too young. He had so much ahead of him, and it’s incredibly difficult to accept that he’s gone.”
An investigation by the police into the incident is currently underway.