A fatal hit-and-run accident claimed the life of a 34-year-old man at Mirigeda Junction along the Magi Highway on Monday, August 17, 2026.

The victim, identified as Jepstar Nobi, a Papua New Guinean national originally from Garaina in the Wawaria District of Morobe Province, died at the scene from injuries sustained during the collision.

Preliminary reports indicated the incident occurred between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM.

Nobi, who was single and unemployed, was struck by an unidentified vehicle near the junction.

The driver involved fled the scene immediately following the impact, leaving behind no immediate details regarding the make, model, or registration of the vehicle.

Local police launched a full investigation into the crash to trace the driver responsible.

The exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy remained unclear, though the incident renewed widespread public concern over pedestrian safety along the Magi Highway, particularly during dawn hours when low visibility presented significant hazards for both drivers and commuters sharing the road.

Authorities appealed to the public for assistance as inquiries continued.

Family members and friends of Nobi were left devastated by his sudden death while investigators worked to bring closure to the grieving community.