Roger Qoro Sr is grappling with the devastating loss of his son, Roger Qoro Jr fondly remembered as the “golden boy” of Sabeto Village, Nadi.
The 12-year-old died tragically on Wednesday after being thrown from a moving vehicle.
Roger Jr had joined members of the Revival Church for a New Year’s picnic at Natadola Beach.
His father recalled that while Jr travelled to the beach by bus that morning, he chose to return with friends in a carrier transporting tents.
“His mother called me and said he followed his friends. I later received a call saying Jr had fallen off the carrier,” Mr Qoro said.
Relatives who witnessed the accident rushed him to Sigatoka Hospital.
“They told me he was responsive but kept his eyes closed,” Mr Qoro said.
However, his worst fears were realised when he called the hospital at 7pm.
“I asked about Ju, and they started crying. My uncle then told me Ju had passed away.”
Mr Qoro shared that Jr had suffered internal injuries and bruising.
“Ju was loved by everyone in the village. He was hardworking, dependable, and excelled both academically and athletically at Sabeto District School. His sports medals earned him the nickname ‘golden boy’.”
While funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised, Jr’s absence is already deeply felt by his community.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu expressed his condolences and concern over the incident.
