Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Young Father in Lautoka

Tomasi Waimuka experienced an unimaginable loss when he wished to see his son, Aporosa Momo, alive but instead found himself facing the tragic reality of a hit-and-run incident early Saturday morning on Drasa Avenue in Lautoka. Momo, 26, was discovered by a passerby and rushed to the Lautoka Hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.

Mr. Waimuka, a resident of Nasowata Settlement in Navutu, Lautoka, recounted the harrowing events following a family funeral the previous day. After Momo informed his father that he was heading to a relative’s home, the family received the devastating news just hours later. “When I arrived at the scene, I was shocked to see his body covered up. Police had not allowed us to touch his body,” he expressed, heartbroken over the loss of a son who left behind two young children.

Aporosa Momo was known in his community not only for his caring nature but also for his contributions to local events and his participation in a rugby league team. Mr. Waimuka reflected on his son’s commitment to their settlement, emphasizing the void left behind by his absence.

The police are currently investigating the incident, as Director of Traffic Senior Superintendent Mitieli Divuana confirmed. In a related note, SSP Divuana mentioned another tragic road incident that occurred shortly after midnight on Friday, claiming the life of 38-year-old Nadi businessman Ronesh Chand, who lost control of his vehicle while driving towards Nadi. He sustained fatal injuries, while two of his passengers are in stable condition and another has been discharged.

Despite the grim nature of these reports, it’s encouraging to note that the overall road death toll has decreased this year, with 50 fatalities recorded compared to 71 during the same period last year. This may reflect ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and awareness among drivers. As communities grapple with grief from such incidents, it is hoped that greater awareness and preventive measures will lead to fewer tragedies on the roads in the future.