Man Laments Death of Granddaughter in Tragic Accident
It was with a heavy heart that Bila Curuevalenibula had to relay the news to his grandchildren that one of their own would not return home.
This follows the death of one-year-old granddaughter, Talei Biuniceva, who was allegedly hit by a vehicle driven by a 32-yearold woman near her home at Natokowaqa Housing in Lautoka on Monday at around 6pm.
Police said it was alleged that baby Talei unexpectedly crossed the road resulting in the accident.
A tearful Mr Curuevalenibula said he was still in a state of shock over what transpired. The 63-year-old recalled being inside his home when he heard residents outside calling for help.
He said Talei was sitting on a stone in their compound just before the alleged accident happened.
“The driver had come to collect something from our neighbour’s home, I am not aware if she had seen my granddaughter sitting there,” he said.
“When the alleged accident happened, I saw that she had sustained injuries to her head, but she still had a pulse.”
The tearful grandfather of seven grandchildren said it was hard not seeing Talei around the house.
“I haven’t been able to sleep well, my other grandchildren asked for Talei and it was hard for me to tell them that she isn’t returning home,” he said.
Talei was due to turn two years old on January 29 and her family planned to celebrate her birthday in a special way.
Police chief operations officer, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (A/ACP), Livai Driu reiterated the need for parents and guardians to prioritise the supervision of their children because accidents could result in the loss of life.
A/ACP Driu highlighted that Police would investigate the element of negligence of such cases involving children. Investigations continue.