A 26-year-old man from Nukunuku died early this morning, February 28 when the vehicle in which he was a front passenger collided with a power pole at Fatai.

Chief Inspector Sofilisi Fifita of Tonga Police, said the accident at around 1:35 am on Hihifo Road. The driver was a 28-year-old man, and the deceased a front seat passenger, travelling with another male passenger, all from Nukunuku.

It was reported that the deceased was with friends on a night out, drinking alcohol in Nuku'alofa. It was after 1:00 am when they left town, heading back home in two vehicles. The Chief Inspector said when they reached Fatai, the vehicle with the two passengers swerved off the road hitting the other vehicle, which was travelling in front, causing both vehicles to slide to the right.

The rear vehicle crashed into a power pole on the right side of the road, breaking the pole in two, and injuring the driver and passengers.

All three men were rushed to Vaiola Hospital where one passenger passed away. The other two who sustained serious injuries remain in the hospital.

Meanwhile, the driver and a passenger in the other vehicle escaped with no injuries.

“Speed and alcohol were contributing factors to this fatal crash. We urge youth, drivers and road users to act responsibly because there is only one life. Make sure you do not drink and drive and if you are arrange for a sober driver or catch a taxi home,” said the Chief Inspector.

"Everyone should always be safe and considerate when on the road."  

This is the first road fatality in Tonga this year.