A 21-year-old man, Isei Tamanikalou, tragically died in an accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Originally from Matanagata in Vatukoula, Tamanikalou was eager to return to Fiji National University to pursue a degree in engineering.
According to police reports, he was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man that crashed on Kings Road in Naviyago, near Lautoka.
His grandparents are devastated by the loss, describing Tamanikalou as a bright and kind young man who made a significant impact on everyone he encountered. His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, recalled their final conversation just hours before the tragedy, when he mentioned visiting friends in his village.
“He was such a good boy. Always shy and quiet, but with so much love in his heart,” offered his grandfather, Epitani Tabua. “He was always happy-go-lucky and well-liked by everyone. He enjoyed helping around the house and never asked for much.”
Recently, Tamanikalou completed a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was excited about his future. “He was determined to create a better life for himself,” said Mr. Tabua.
Tamanikalou shared a particularly close relationship with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who adopted him as a child. “He always called him ‘dad’ because of their close bond,” Mr. Tabua added.
“It’s heartbreaking to think that he had his whole life ahead of him. It’s just so hard to accept that he’s gone.” An investigation by the police is still underway.