PAGBILAO, Quezon – A bus driver was killed after he was hit and dragged by a truck that lost its brakes on a downhill section of the diversion road in Sitio Amao, Barangay Silangang Malicboy, this town, before dawn on Friday, October 11.
Police identified the victim as Ejay Morales of Barangay Salakan, Guinayangan, Quezon.
Investigation said Morales stopped the P&O Transport Corp. bus on the road shoulder to check its brakes in preparation for a steep descent.
A driver of a 10-wheel truck, Rolando Lacson Galon, lost control of the vehicle and struck Morales while inspecting the rear tires of the bus.
The victim was dragged several meters and dropped into an open canal. He died on the spot.
The truck plunged into a five-meter-deep ravine and sustained damages.
The truck helper said Galon, who sustained injuries, lost control of their vehicle as the brakes failed due to the heavy load of scrap materials they were transporting.
The truck helper was injured as he jumped from the truck to save himself. He and the driver were taken to a hospital in Lucena City.
Police are conducting follow-up investigation.