9 killed, 6 injured in 3-vehicle crash in Isabela
By Freddie Lazaro and Liezle Basa Iñigo
Nine people were killed and six others were injured in a collision involving two passenger vans and a truck in Barangay San Pablo, Aurora, Isabela before dawn on Saturday, July 19.
Police said the eight fatalities were the driver and seven passengers of a commuter van – Oseas Calderon, driver, and passengers Niches Heizle Cagayongan, Claribel Maling, Jing Romboa, Loren, Emil, Jennifer, and Jorenda.
Injured were truck driver October de Leon, Ron-Ron Onalan, the driver of the second van, and Onalan's passengers Ronald, Jers, Ariel, and Franklin.
Police Capt. Terrence Tomas, Isabela police information officer, said the ninth fatality was a priest, a passenger of Onalan. The priest went into a coma following the accident and died.
Police said one of the fatalities was an Overseas Filipino Worker. The fatality’s name was not disclosed.
Investigation said the truck allegedly encroached on the opposite lane and hit a passenger van driven by Onalan and Calderon’s van trailing behind.
The victims were taken by rescuers to various hospitals.
Police said that human error caused the accident and a follow-up probe is ongoing. The truck is now under police custody for investigation and legal proceedings.
The provincial government of Kalinga mourned the death of the fatalities who were residents of the province. Victims were assured of the provincial government’s support and assistance.
“We also call on the community to offer a moment of prayer for the eternal repose of the souls who departed from this unfortunate incident,” the province said, adding that the tragedy “serves as a solemn reminder for all to exercise caution and always prioritize safety.”
Police Col. Lee Allen B. Bauding, Isabela police director, condoled with the families of the fatalities.
Bauding urged motorists to extra precaution while driving during night time to avoid tragic accidents.