The Delai family is grieving the loss of their son, Ratu Manueli Ligari Delai, who died in an alleged accident outside their home in Naitonitoni, Navua, five days ago. The tragic event occurred on Sunday when the 18-month-old was reportedly struck by a vehicle in the family’s driveway.
Serai Tinai, the boy’s mother, recounted that she was preparing food around 9 am when she heard a loud sound from outside. She alleged that the vehicle involved did not stop after hitting her son. Together with her husband, Apimeleki Delai, they immediately took the toddler to Navua Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Apimeleki Delai expressed his deep anguish, stating he struggled to accept that his son had died, even after receiving confirmation from the medical staff. He shared that his last moments with Ratu Manueli were filled with joy as they played in bed early that morning. When he woke, he found his wife in distress, holding their son.
Following the incident, they transported Ratu Manueli’s body to the Navua mortuary but were redirected to the Suva mortuary due to a power outage at the local facility. Mr. Delai described his emotional turmoil, revealing that he had hoped his son was still alive despite the doctors’ reports. He noted that the next morning, the entire family awoke in sorrow.
A post-mortem examination was carried out on Wednesday. The family is now facing immense grief and is urging other parents to stay vigilant regarding their children’s safety. Police spokesman Wame Bautolu confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.