Judge to sum up bus fire case tomorrow

High Court Judge, Justice Paul Madigan will present his summing up tomorrow in relation to the bus fire which resulted in the death of 12 passengers near Malaqereqere, Nadroga on August 28, 2008.

In court today the State Counsel, Madonna Fong made her closing submission and told the three assessors that the driver, Kaminieli Tuimavana failed in his duty, being the driver and he is responsible for the control of the bus and the lives of the passengers.

Fong highlighted what one of the witnesses, Elia had said.

Elia testified how the driver ignored him after he rang the bell several times during their journey.

He testified that on that night some women including his wife chose to get off the bus in Lami Town because they were afraid of the sound coming from the bus.

Elia said at Vatukarasa Village he rang the bell to stop the bus after his daughter, who was also on the bus, told him she could smell burning tyres.

He said the driver failed to stop and continued driving.

Defence Counsel, Gavin O’Driscol said that pressure was put on the driver, he was tired and had a long day but was threatened by his employer to do the run, otherwise he will lose his job.

Tuimavana is charged with 12 counts of manslaughter.

Story by: Tokasa Rainima