Tragedy at Auckland Airport: Truck Driver Killed in Early Morning Crash as Wife Attends Funeral in Fiji

In a heartbreaking incident that has left a community in shock, Arvind Kummar, a 45-year-old truck driver, was killed in a car crash on George Bolt Memorial Drive near Auckland Airport at approximately 4:00 AM last Wednesday. The accident occurred as Kummar was preparing to drop off his wife, Jashoda Goundar, for a flight to Fiji where she was attending the funeral of her aunt. Tragically, Kummar lost his life in the collision, while his wife sustained serious injuries.

The crash, which involved three vehicles, caused temporary road closures and raised concerns about the safety of the area near the airport. A close family friend, who wished to remain anonymous, shared with the Herald that Jashoda is currently recovering from severe spinal injuries, a fractured hip, and damage to her backbone at Middlemore Hospital. Despite her condition, she was able to watch the funeral via a livestream, though the emotional toll was evident.

"They were driving to the airport. The wife was going to Fiji. Arvind was going to drop her and then get to work," the friend said. "She was going to the funeral, her aunt’s funeral."

Kummar, known to his friends as "Ronald," had been living in New Zealand for two years on a work visa. He was a dedicated truck driver in Fiji before moving to the country. His friend described him as a deeply religious and kind-hearted person, who was always praying and singing songs. "He was a perfect person. Like my daughters, like he was like brother of my daughters. He was very nice person. I have never met a nicer person ever before," the friend said.

Kummar was the sole provider for his family, taking care of his parents, wife, sisters, and nieces. His friend expressed deep sorrow over his loss, especially as the family had just begun planning a surprise birthday celebration for Kummar, which was scheduled for later this month. "We are attached like family. We dearly miss Arvind Kummar so much," the friend said.

Online tributes from the Fijian community on Facebook highlighted Kummar's dedication and unwavering faith. "He was the beloved son of Mr & Mrs Muttu Sami Dadua of Lauwaki Settlement, Lautoka," one post read. "He never turned back to say no."

The crash was reported at the intersection of George Bolt Memorial Drive and Tom Pearce Drive, with emergency services responding promptly. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about road safety and the need for improved infrastructure in high-traffic areas near airports.

As the community mourns the loss of a beloved family man and a devoted worker, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of prioritizing safety on the roads.