Neori Vuidreketi Makoto has a heartfelt wish: for his younger brother, Semi Lete Makoto, to come back home to his family.
Semi Makoto, aged 24, tragically passed away in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Aspen Hospital in Lautoka following an accident last week.
Semi, who worked at Burger King in Martintar, Nadi, was hit by a bus while riding his bike from his home in Malolo, Nadi, to his workplace.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed that an investigation into the case is ongoing.
A witness, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed the bus was traveling at high speed when it struck Semi. “The man was not wearing a helmet. He must have suffered a serious head injury based on the distance between where he was hit and where he landed,” the witness said.
Mr. Makoto recounted that upon receiving the news of his brother being rushed to the hospital, he initially believed it was a minor injury. “But when I came to the hospital, I was shocked to see his condition. He was in a coma. The entire week I kept visiting the ICU, hoping he would open his eyes and we could speak to each other again,” he said.
“The doctors kept us updated about his condition until they declared him brain dead. Last week, we were told to come and say our last goodbye to him. All I wish for is that he could recover and take care of his young family. He has a one-year-old child.”
Mr. Makoto noted that his brother was diligently saving money to buy land and start a farm. Semi was the youngest of three siblings.
Describing his brother, Mr. Makoto said, “He is a very quiet person. He doesn’t speak much, but his work speaks volumes about him. He is hardworking. We were very close. I miss my brother.”
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