A young man lost his life in a tragic accident in Lautoka on Saturday morning, leaving his family heartbroken. Isei Tamanikalou, a 21-year-old from Matanagata in Vatukoula, had plans to return to Fiji National University to pursue a degree in engineering.
According to police, Tamanikalou 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, mourning his passing, remembered him as a bright young man with a generous spirit who touched the lives of many around him.
His grandmother, Makereta Laulau, is still struggling with the loss. She recounted their final conversation just before the accident, noting that they had just returned from church when he mentioned going to Matanagata to visit friends. “He had so many friends in the village and loved spending time with them,” she reflected, regretting that it was the last time she saw him.
Epitani Tabua, Tamanikalou’s grandfather, described him as a good-natured boy who was shy yet loving. “He was always happy-go-lucky and well-liked by everyone. He enjoyed helping around the house and never asked for much,” he said.
Tamanikalou had recently finished a certificate in electrical engineering, and his family was excited about his future. “He was eager to return to university and was very determined to create a better life for himself,” Tabua stated.
One of the most significant relationships in Tamanikalou’s life was with his uncle, Eloni Naidedede, who had raised him. “He always called him ‘dad’ because of their close bond. They shared a very special connection,” his grandfather shared, noting the profound impact of Tamanikalou’s loss. “He was too young. He had his whole life ahead of him, and it’s so hard to accept that he’s gone.”
The police are currently investigating the incident.