Waiuku crash victims named as mother, daughter, and niece

The community is rallying around the families of a Waiuku woman and two children who died in a crash on the outskirts of Waiuku on Tuesday afternoon.

Police formally identified the trio on Thursday afternoon as 35-year-old Frances (Sesi) Mildred Latu‑Vailea, her five-year-old daughter Oneahi Vailea, and her seven-year-old niece Marly Tulua, of Pukekohe.

A Givealittle page said the devastating accident has left Latu-Vailea’s husband, Amanaki, suddenly widowed and the sole caregiver to their three sons.

The three children are aged eight weeks, 2, and 12.

The fundraiser aims to “provide essential support as he navigates caring for their young boys and processing such an unimaginable loss.”

The funds will also “support Marly’s family, who are also mourning deeply while caring for their own young baby and facing the pain of losing Marly, Frances, and Oneahi.”

“No words can ease the pain, but your kindness and support can help lighten the heavy load these families are carrying right now,” it said.

By Thursday afternoon, the crowdfunding page had raised over $50,000 for the families.

Counties Manukau South Area Commander Inspector Jared Pirret said investigations continue into the circumstances of the crash, which happened on Masters Road at 3.30pm.

“Our thoughts remain with the families of Sesi, Marly and Oneahi at this incredibly difficult time.

“The family’s request for privacy is ongoing as they continue to grieve for their loved ones.”

He said police and the family would like to acknowledge local police staff and members of the public who assisted at the crash site.

• Full link to the Givealittle page: www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/support-for-the-vailea-and-extended-family