A devastating accident has claimed the lives of three individuals, including a mother adn her young niece. Frances Latu-Vailea, a court registrar for the Family Court, and her 10-year-old niece, Marly Tulua, were among the victims. The third victim has been identified as Oneahi.
Latu-Vailea’s husband, Amanaki Latu-Vailea, has been left widowed and is now the sole caregiver to their three young sons, aged eight weeks, two years, and twelve years old.
A Givealittle page has been established to support the grieving families during this “unthinkable time.” The page aims to provide financial assistance to Amanaki, allowing him time to grieve without immediate financial burdens and to help him navigate his new role as a sole caregiver. The page has already raised $25,000.
The funds will also extend support to Marly’s family, who are also mourning the loss of Latu-Vailea and Oneahi while caring for their own young baby. The crowdfunding page emphasizes that any contribution, no matter the size, will help alleviate the heavy load the families are carrying.Colleagues of Latu-Vailea at the Ministry of Justice expressed their devastation at her sudden death. Chief executive Andrew Kibblewhite stated that their thoughts and deepest condolences are with her immediate and extended family.Latu-Vailea, primarily based at the Pukekohe District Court, also worked in various Auckland locations, including North Shore, Manukau, and Papakura. Kibblewhite acknowledged the significant impact this tragedy will have on many people and offered support to Latu-Vailea’s family and her wider Auckland colleagues.Police have formally named the three individuals who died in the crash. Counties Manukau South Area Commander Inspector Jared Pirret conveyed the police’s thoughts to the families of Sesi, Marly, and Oneahi during this arduous period and acknowledged the ongoing request for privacy from the family. Police and the family also extended their gratitude to local police staff and members of the public who provided assistance at the crash site.
