A guardian of a 16-year-old boy who tragically passed away in a car accident in Labasa is searching for answers regarding the circumstances of his death. Premila Devi, who has raised her nephew Shalvin Lal since he was seven years old after the death of his father, is struggling with the loss of her beloved family member.
In the hours leading up to the accident, Mrs. Devi shared that Shalvin had returned home from swimming and enjoyed a lighthearted dinner with family. However, their last conversation occurred just before he decided to go out that night. At approximately 2 AM, she received devastating news from her brother-in-law that Shalvin had been involved in an accident on the road.
Compounding the tragedy is the fact that Shalvin lived with a physical disability that affected his mobility. Mrs. Devi expressed disbelief that he could have been the one driving the vehicle, noting that he did not have a driver’s license and had never driven a car due to his condition. When informed of Shalvin’s injuries, she reported only minor cuts and bruises, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the details of the incident.
Senior Superintendent of Police Mitieli Divuana confirmed that an investigation is underway, as Shalvin was allegedly driving without a license when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a culvert. This incident is part of a wider trend of tragic road fatalities, with a current toll of 57 for the year, a slight decrease compared to the previous year.
This tragic story serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and adherence to driving regulations. It also highlights the devastating impact of loss on families, prompting discussions around youth, driving laws, and the responsibilities that come with them. As the investigation develops, hope remains that answers will provide some closure to Shalvin’s grieving family.
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