Family waits for answers after fatal crash, urges road safety awareness

The family of Theresa Lucinta Evans is continuing to seek answers more than a month after the fatal crash in Nadi that claimed the life of the 28-year-old Virgin Australia flight attendant.

As the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) reviews the case, the family is also calling for greater awareness around road safety in Fiji.

Ms Evans, originally from Alexandria in Sydney, died after she was hit by a vehicle in Martintar, Nadi, after 5am on March 28.

According to police, a taxi had collided with another vehicle before veering off the road and striking Evans, who was standing on the roadside. She died at the scene.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said the matter was currently with the ODPP for review.

The Evans family said they understood no charges could be laid until the process was complete and directions were issued.

“As a family, this period of waiting has been incredibly difficult. It has now been more than a month since the incident, and we continue to live each day with profound grief,” a statement from the Evans family said.

“We are surrounded by constant reminders of Lucinta, her dreams, and the overwhelming emptiness in our lives that should never have been there. Our spark is gone. Our Lucinta is gone from this earth.”

The family said while they respected the legal process, it was difficult to accept that no one had yet been held accountable.

“We continue to seek answers and hope for appropriate action once the review is finalised,” the statement said.

The family also used the opportunity to raise concerns about dangerous driving and road safety.

“The rising number of fatalities and serious injuries caused by dangerous driving, speeding, and reckless behaviour is a growing concern. No family should have to endure such a loss,” the statement said.

The family thanked the media for continuing to raise awareness about Lucinta’s case and the wider issue of road safety in Fiji.

Ms Naisoro had earlier said the victim was standing on a walkway when the accident occurred.

She said a taxi driven by a man in his 30s allegedly collided with another vehicle before veering off the road and hitting Ms Evans, who died at the scene.

Both drivers were questioned and released pending the ODPP review.

Ms Naisoro said the accidents, allegedly linked to driver negligence, highlighted the need for motorists to remain alert and practise safe driving.