By G. Watson Richards
A wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a fatal road accident that claimed the life of 11-year-old Noah Kolleh is facing prolonged delays amid allegations of possible compromise.
The case, filed before the Civil Law Court at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia, arises from a tragic incident on October 30, 2023, along the Japan Freeway in Paynesville City.
A Verity thorough investigation including copies of court documents in the possession of this paper revealed that the young student was struck and killed by a commercial truck owned by Builders Construction Company and operated by driver Sheik Npia.
The Liberia National Police investigative report determined that the driver was liable for reckless driving and failure to yield to a pedestrian resulting in death, citing violations of the country’s Vehicles and Traffic Law of Liberia.
Despite these findings, the civil proceedings seeking damages have been marked by repeated setbacks.
Civil Action and Damages
The victim’s mother, Youngor David Kolleh, acting as administratrix of her son’s estate, is seeking US$750,000 in specific damages and US$1 million in general damages.
The complaint outlines the profound emotional and psychological toll of the loss, including ongoing trauma and mental anguish.
According to the victim legal team, efforts to reach an out-of-court settlement failed. Court filings indicate that the defendants initially suggested their insurer would engage with the plaintiff’s counsel but allegedly did not follow through.
Further communications between lawyers reportedly revealed that the defendant company claimed financial incapacity and was prepared to “take their chances in court.”
Supreme Court Intervention
The matter escalated to the Supreme Court of Liberia following a petition for a writ of certiorari to review the handling of the case by the lower court. A conference was subsequently scheduled under the authority of Associate Justice Jamesetta H. Wolokolie, signaling concerns about procedural issues at the trial level.
Such intervention typically suggests that a party believes there has been a significant legal error or abuse of judicial discretion.
Allegations of Delay and Possible Compromise
The parents of the late little Kolleh are now questioning whether the delays are merely procedural or indicative of deeper systemic challenges. Although the case dates back to the September Term of Court in 2025, it has yet to reach substantive resolution.
Critics point to repeated adjournments and a lack of decisive action, fueling speculation that external influence or informal arrangements may be affecting the pace of proceedings.
While no formal evidence of judicial misconduct has been established, civil society advocates warn that even the perception of compromise risks undermining public confidence in the judiciary.
Insurance and Liability Concerns
Documents linked to the case show that Mutual Benefits Assurance Company acknowledged the accident and indicated willingness to cover damages within policy limits. However, there is no clear record that compensation has been paid to the victim’s family.
This disconnect between acknowledgment of liability and actual restitution remains a central issue in the dispute.
Broader Implications
The case underscores persistent challenges within Liberia’s legal system, particularly in ensuring timely adjudication, enforcing liability, and safeguarding access to justice.
Many Liberia asserts that the outcome from they could set an important precedent for wrongful death claims and corporate accountability in the country.
For the family of Noah Kolleh, however, the matter goes beyond legal arguments.
“We are not just seeking money,” a source close to the family said. “We are seeking justice—and closure.”
