A young mother and a teenage boy died when the boat they’re travelling was hit by another boat on Friday night off Kolombangara island, Western Province.
The tragedy occurred between 7pm-8pm close to Kukudu Adventist College.
The Sunday Star was told yesterday two boats – one a 60-horse powered, the other a 40-horse – were involved in the collision.
“The two outboard motor powered canoes collided when the 60-HP came from Ropa to Kukudu School and was hit by the approaching 40-HP boat coming from the eastern course of the school,” an informer from Kolombangara island told the Sunday Star
The informer said the deceased mother, her husband who was the driver, together with other relatives that were onboard the 60-HP boat, were destined to visit their daughter, a form three student at Kukudu.
“It was already dark so the two skippers could barely see each other.
“Coming towards each other, the driver of the 60-HP boat detected a boat approaching them.
“He made a quick turn to avoid colliding with the on-coming boat.
“But it was too late. The 40-HP boat, which was steaming ahead, smashed onto the side of the 60HP boat.”
The informer revealed the boat hit the teenager who sat on the seat next to the deck at the lower part of the boat near the driver of the 60 HP, sending him into the waters.
A search conducted yesterday has been unable to locate his body.
The deceased mother was also hit by the on-coming boat and died instantly inside the canoe, the informer said.
Her husband, the driver, was injured by the propeller of the on-coming boat while attempting to protect his son.
The mother’s body was taken to Gizo Hospital.
Gizo police confirmed the incident yesterday, but said they are yet to get the full details.
A boat collision that occurred of the coast in west Guadalcanal last December had also resulted in the death of a boy.
By STEPHEN DIISANGO
