POLICE raised the death toll to six after a speeding wing van truck lost control and mowed people and 22 vehicles near the Marilog District Barangay Hall along the Davao-Bukidnon National Highway on Saturday, April 11.
According to the DCPO spokesperson Captain Hazel Caballero, five victims, including the truck driver and two helpers, were pronounced dead at the scene, while a 71-year-old bystander later succumbed to his injuries at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC).
The previous report placed the dead at four.
The Isuzu wing van (Plate No. CAH 1281), loaded with assorted snack products and driven by 40-year-old Rodrigo, was reportedly negotiating a steep, curved descent when it lost control.
According to witness Samuel, the truck was traveling at “excessive speed” before it tipped over, swerved to the right, and plowed into the Barangay Marilog gym and a crowded parking area.
The fatalities include the driver and his two young assistants from Panabo City: Remarc, 21, and Alias Lauren, 15.
The tragedy also claimed the lives of local residents and community leaders who were near the barangay hall, like alias Ireen, 29, who died on the spot; alias Jose, 71, who died during treatment; and one additional bystander (identity pending official release).
Six others were injured, including two purok leaders and three barangay tanods who were on duty. While some sustained minor injuries and refused transport, others remain in stable condition at the Southern Philippines Medical Center.
The impact was severe enough that it damaged the structural integrity of the Barangay gym and crushed 18 motorcycles and one motorcycle with a sidecar, two motorized tricycles (Bao-Bao), a Nissan van, and a Sportivo.
According to the police, preliminary findings indicate reckless imprudence as the apparent cause.
