BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
Around 1 in the afternoon on Wednesday, January 22, CCTV footage captured a motorcycle crossing Barangay Bongalon when it was suddenly struck by an SUV.
The impact threw the passengers several meters away.
The motorcycle was carrying 63-year-old Benjamin Cruz Garcia and his 6-year-old grandchild.
According to the investigation by Labrador PNP, the victim was on his way to drop off his grandchild at school when the incident happened.
PSSG. Jomar S. Fabiaña, Assistant Investigator – Labrador PNP, narrated, “The Montero SUV was traveling fast, but the driver tried to avoid the collision. Unfortunately, he couldn’t prevent it.”
The victims were rushed to the hospital, but Garcia was declared dead on arrival due to severe trauma.
Police reported that the 19-year-old SUV driver claimed they were on their way to Dagupan to bring his mother for therapy.
“The driver said the grandfather suddenly crossed the road. He didn’t intend for the accident to happen—it was purely accidental,” Fabiaña added.
The PNP is coordinating with local officials to ensure the safety of students and motorists near schools.
“We are coordinating with barangay captains to install slow-down signs and deploy personnel at school zones, especially in elementary schools,” he mentioned.
The SUV driver is now facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, serious physical injury, and damage to property. However, he was released after posting bail.
