THE man who raised a teenager who was allegedly hacked to death in Naqali, Naitasiri, on Tuesday has died from what villagers say was triggered by extreme emotional stress.
Mosese Vosabeci had raised Salote Sikiti since she was eight years old and family said the grief-stricken man was overwhelmed by despair.
A village spokesperson said Mr Vosabeci was still grappling with the death of the 15-year-old and talked of his distress during a conversation on Thursday night, just hours before he passed.
Both Salote and her uncle will be laid to rest today.
Grief filled Naqali Village yesterday as Salote’s Year 10-04 classmates from Dilkusha Methodist High School, accompanied by their principal and teachers, visited to present their i-reguregu.
Her best friend, 15-year-old Grace Mocelutu, recalled the moment they first met.
“The first time we met, she was always smiling, it just shows her heart,” Grace said.
She said the class had recently received their school reports and were looking forward to the new academic year.
“When we got our report, we were excited for the school next year.”
Their class teacher, Reverend Peceli Raduva, described Salote as an attentive, quiet and meek student who stood out for her kindness.
“One trait that was unique to Salote is her compassion, she’s always there for the students and teachers,” Mr Raduva said.
He said the news of her death had been devastating but added that her gentle nature reassured him she was at peace.
“Knowing her character, and the heart that she had, I know she is in paradise,” he said.
Mr Raduva urged parents to “pray and look out for their children” as the festive season approaches.
