A tragic road accident in Mokani on Friday, April 3, 2026, claimed the life of 27-year-old Tomasi Seru Vueti, leaving his family grappling with the shock and grief of his death days away from his graduation.
His uncle, Josaia Koronikalou, recalled the final moments they shared before his untimely death.
“He had breakfast with his mother that morning and was preparing to head to our farms,” Mr Koronikalou said.
“Tomasi was walking along the left side of the road while the rest of us had crossed over to the right.”
What followed unfolded in a matter of seconds.
“The vehicle came at a very high speed and couldn’t stop in time. The impact threw him metres from where he was walking. When he landed, the same vehicle rolled over him. We ran to help and tried to lift the car, but it was already too late.”
Fighting back tears, Mr Koronikalou described Tomasi as a humble and reserved young man.
“He kept to himself and only spoke when spoken to.”
“When others joked with him, he would just smile and quietly laugh along.
“He had such a calm spirit and never picked fights with anyone.”
Tomasi, a student at USP, was due to graduate next week with a Certificate in Geospatial Science — a milestone his family had been eagerly anticipating.
Police confirmed the incident involved a driver in his 20s, who allegedly struck the victim after he staggered onto the road while attempting to avoid another vehicle. His funeral will be held this Friday, as relatives and friends prepare to lay the 27-year-old to rest.
