On New Year’s Day, a tragic accident claimed the life of 11-year-old Roger Qoro, a bright and ambitious young boy with dreams of becoming an aircraft engineer and playing rugby for his national team. Roger suffered fatal injuries after being thrown from the back of a moving carrier truck while traveling in Natadola with friends and other youths during a church picnic.
His father, Roger Qoro Sr, shared the heart-wrenching news, expressing the profound loss that has cast a shadow over the start of the year. “My son had so many dreams,” he lamented, recounting how Roger was always filled with determination and energy. He excelled in both academics and sports, consistently ranking among the top students in his class and earning medals in athletics, including gold in the 4x100m relay.
The tragic incident occurred after the vehicle hit a pothole, which led to Roger being thrown onto the tar-sealed road. Despite being rushed to Sigatoka Hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and community in mourning. Roger’s father described how he was working when he first heard of the accident and the subsequent devastating news about his son’s passing.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Livai Driu, expressed sorrow over the incident, highlighting the persistent issue of road safety and the need for driver responsibility, especially during the busy festive season. Roger’s body is currently awaiting a post-mortem at Sigatoka Hospital.
Overall, this tragic story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. While Roger’s passing leaves a significant void, his memories and aspirations will surely inspire those who knew him, encouraging a community to foster youth talent and prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies.
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