A young man tragically lost his life in a vehicular accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning. Isei Tamanikalou, 21, from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans to return to Fiji National University to pursue a degree in engineering.
According to police reports, Tamanikalou was one of three passengers in a vehicle driven by a 30-year-old man when it crashed on Kings Road in Naviyago, just outside Lautoka.
His grandparents spoke about their heartbreak over the loss of their grandson, describing him as a bright individual with a big heart who left a memorable impact on those around him. His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, is finding it difficult to cope with the tragedy, reflecting on their last conversation just hours before the accident when he mentioned visiting friends after returning from church.
“The last time I saw him, he said he was going to Matanagata to visit friends. He had so many friends in the village and loved spending time with them,” she shared.
His grandfather, Epitani Tabua, remembered him as a shy yet kind-hearted young man. “He was always happy-go-lucky and well-liked by everyone. He was eager to help around the house and never asked for much,” Tabua expressed.
Tamanikalou had recently earned a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was looking forward to his promising future. “He was excited to return to university and was determined to create a better life for himself,” his grandfather added.
Mr. Tamanikalou shared a particularly close relationship with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who adopted him during his childhood. “He always called him ‘dad’ because of their special bond,” Tabua noted. “Isei was too young. He had his whole life ahead of him, and it’s so hard to accept that he’s gone.”
The police continue their investigation into the incident.