The 65-year-old driver in a school bus crash that killed three and injured several others in December 24, 2016 in New Zealand has appeared in court this morning.
Talakai ‘Aholelei is facing 30 charges, including three of careless driving causing death.
The Mailefihi Siu’ilikutapu brass band was in New Zealand with a mission to fundraise for the college’s 70th anniversary in June.
‘Aholelei who is also known by the king’s heraldic title Māsila has been granted bail without plea, and has surrendered his passport.
He’s due back in court in a month’s time.
Newstalk ZB has quoted his Tongan lawyer Nalesoni Tupou as arguing “they need the time to sift through the large amount of information in the unique case”.
For more information:
“Lack of patience” mars good work after Mailefihi Siuilikutapu college fundraising in NZ
Vavaʻu band group in fatal crash in NZ to raise $200,000 for College’s 70th anniversary
