A family is mourning the loss of a loved one on Christmas Day following a fatal accident at Nakelo early this morning.

Eastern division police personnel attended to the report after 3am today when the 41-year-old driver alleged to have caused the accident reported the matter at the Wainibokasi Community Post.

The victim believed to be in his 30s was walking along the road when it is alleged he suddenly crossed the road.

It is alleged the suspect allegedly hit him with his vehicle.

The road death toll currently stands at 66 compared to 60 for the same period last year.

Meanwhile, in another incident, a vehicle driven by a 38-year-old man of Delaikuku, Tailevu was retrieved from the Waimanu river yesterday.

The incident occurred at around midday yesterday along Sawani and it is alleged the driver fell asleep at the wheel causing it to veer off the road before landing in the Waimanu river.

The man escaped injuries.