The driver of a speeding vehicle involved in an accident that resulted in the death of four men over the weekend appeared in District Court this morning.
Chanel Lafua is being held on bail of 75,000 in connection with the deaths.
He was taken into custody Saturday afternoon after being treated at the LBJ Hospital for injuries sustained in the early Saturday morning crash at Satala.
Deputy Commissioner Fo’ifua Fo’ifua said the driver was intoxicated. He also revealed that the defendant had a pending DUI.
Governor’s Message of Condolence.
Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga issued the following statement regarding the tragic accident.
“My prayers and thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives during the fatal Satala accident. What saddens me the most is that this holiday season will not be complete for all those affected. The families, churches, children, and communities of those who have passed and those who have sustained injuries will be grieving during a season that is normally filled with happiness and joy. The case is still under investigation, and the cause of the car losing control is still not known. As we await those findings, I ask that the Territory continue to pray for the victims and the families affected by this senseless act.”
“Several things I want to remind the general public while holiday celebrations are underway:
1. Please practice safety on our roads. There is no reason to be speeding and driving recklessly at any time of the day. Wear your seatbelt and adhere to the speed limit.
2. Do not text and drive. Driving while distracted creates a higher chance of causing an accident, than drinking and driving.
3. Do not drive under the influence. The Department of Public Safety will be conducting enforcement checkpoints and patrolling our streets to ensure your safety. If you know you will be consuming alcohol during the holidays, I suggest you have a plan and not get behind the wheel.”
“There is no reason to drive while impaired. Deaths caused by impaired driving are not accidents. These deaths and injuries are preventable. We all need to do our part and help save lives and prevent future tragedies.”
Governor Lemanu concluded, “On behalf of the Lieutenant Governor, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families who are experiencing this unexpected loss this holiday season. I would also like to extend our thoughts and prayers to those affected from the Independent State of Samoa. Too many lives are lost and cut short, and we will fight to keep our streets safe from impaired and reckless driving.”
