Police say they have arrested a man from North Malaita who allegedly hit and killed a female university student with his vehicle at the Panatina campus bus stop in east Honiara, yesterday.

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) 21-year-old student from Isabel Province was crossing the road on her way to class when she got hit.

Acting Director of the National Traffic Department, staff sergeant Measly Kelo, said the student was rushed to hospital but died later.

“The two-tonne vehicle travelled in an easterly direction at a high speed and hit the deceased while she was crossing the road,” Kelo said.

“It hit and dragged the girl to about 15 to 20 metres on the tarmac,” he added.

“Currently an investigation is being conducted and the vehicle involved in the incident has been detained by police as part of the investigation.”

Kelo said a reconciliation between parties involved in the incident has been conducted but investigation will progress to go before the court.

SINU vice chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau has named the student as Lina Lustus Pitumana.

Aqorau said Pitumana, a promising student enrolled in the University Preparatory College (UPC), had a bright future ahead of her. 

“Her life was tragically cut short in a manner that has left our entire University devastated,” the vice chancellor said.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and loved ones, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of difficult time,” he added.

Aqorau said this incident serves as a sombre reminder of the critical importance of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians. 

“The zebra crossing where Pitumana was struck is the one at Panatina Campus, and it is becoming increasingly clear that it may be poorly located, placing lives at risk. 

“We therefore call on the relevant authorities to urgently review the placement and safety of this pedestrian crossing to prevent further loss of life.

“As an institution that holds the safety and well-being of our students as paramount, we believe it is vital to address these risks head-on. 

“While we mourn the loss of Pitumana, we must also act to ensure that no other lives are needlessly endangered. 

“We urge both pedestrians and drivers to exercise the utmost caution, particularly around school zones and university campuses. 

“Students should remain vigilant when crossing roads, and drivers must be mindful of their surroundings, especially during peak hours when students are arriving at or departing from classes.”

Aqorau appealed to the authorities to conduct a thorough review of the current placement of zebra crossings in and around SINU campuses. 

“We fear that without prompt action, more lives may be put at risk. 

“It is essential that we take collective responsibility for the safety of all road users and ensure that pedestrian crossings are situated in areas that maximise visibility and protection for those crossing the roads.”

Pitumana  became the first person to have been killed at the crossing since the competition of the Japanese-funded highway late last year.

_{Banner Photo Credits: Benjamin Afuga/YTTF}