Two people are dead following separate road accidents, a tragic toll that once again highlights the dangers on our roads.
A woman in her 40s, a mother of six, lost her life in a three-vehicle collision along the Kings Road near Viwa, Korovou, in Tailevu yesterday morning.
And in a separate incident in Mokani on Friday, April 3, 27-year-old Tomasi Seru Vueti was also killed.
Police confirmed the Korovou accident happened when a man in his 20s attempted to overtake another vehicle and collided head-on with the car carrying Inise Karawa, setting off a chain reaction involving a third vehicle.
Despite attempts to save her, Ms Karawa died at the scene.
We understand that six others, including the drivers, were initially rushed to the Korovou Hospital before being transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva, where they are admitted.
Police say the driver allegedly responsible for the accident has yet to be charged as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, Mr Vueti’s death has left his family reeling in shock and grief, just days before what should have been a proud milestone for the family, his graduation. His uncle, Josaia Koronikalou, recalled their final moments together, describing an ordinary morning that quickly turned tragic. He said Tomasi had shared breakfast with his mother and was preparing to head to the family farm.
According to Mr Koronikalou, Tomasi had been walking along the roadside while others had crossed to the opposite side. Within moments, a speeding vehicle approached and failed to stop in time.
The impact was devastating. He was thrown several metres, and the same vehicle ran over him. Family members rushed to help, even attempting to lift the vehicle, but it was too late.
Mr Koronikalou described Tomasi as a quiet and humble young man with a promising future.
A student at USP, he had been looking forward to graduating with a Certificate in Geospatial Science, an achievement his family had long awaited.
Police confirmed the incident involved a driver in his 20s, who allegedly struck Mr Vueti after he moved onto the road while trying to avoid another vehicle.
In both cases, young drivers were involved.
And this is where the real concern lies.
Every year, we talk about road safety. Campaigns are launched, warnings are issued, and strategies are mapped out to reduce accidents and fatalities. Yet, the deaths continue.
These are lives cut short. They were people who were loved, with families now left to grieve.
Two people are dead! Just like that!
No amount of regret or investigation will bring them back. This is why road rules matter. This is why common sense, patience, and courtesy behind the wheel are important. Every driver carries a responsibility for everyone else on the road.
Life is fragile. It can be taken in an instant.
Let’s truly value life. Our actions must reflect that every time we get behind the wheel.
And if we cannot uphold that responsibility, then we must seriously question whether we should be driving at all!
