Four minors were killed while three other passengers were injured after a truck collided with a tricycle in Santiago City, Isabela, at around 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23. The accident occurred on the bypass road of Barangay Ambalatungan, where two vehicles were traveling in opposite directions.
According to the investigation, the 17-year-old tricycle driver lost control, causing it to veer into the opposite lane and collide with a truck carrying cement. The force of the impact caused the tricycle to collapse, causing serious injuries to its occupants.
The victims were immediately taken to the hospital, but four were declared dead on arrival: an 11-year-old boy, an 11-year-old girl, a 12-year-old girl, and a 15-year-old boy. The driver and two other passengers, a 10-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl, are still being monitored.
The incident is saddening because the victims were relatives. The tragedy has left a deep sense of loss and grief in their families and communities. Authorities are now conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and whether those involved are responsible.
The truck driver is currently in the custody of the Santiago City Police Office while all details of the incident are being thoroughly investigated. The local government continues to remind motorists to be careful while driving, especially on main roads and bypass routes to avoid such tragedies.
