QCPD reviews custody transport after deadly Payatas crash
By Trixee Rosel
(Photo courtesy of the Quezon City Police District)
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said on Monday, April 27, that it is reviewing its custody transport procedures following the Payatas road crash that killed five persons under police custody (PUPCs) and injured other detainees as well as police personnel.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame at 10:00 a.m., QCPD officials led by Police Lt. Col. Geoffrey Lyndon Lim of the District Traffic Enforcement Unit provided updates on the April 24 incident.
Authorities said a police mobile assigned to Police Station 15 was transporting PUPCs to the Quezon City Jail–Payatas Facility when it lost control and hit the wall of a private property along Payatas Road, injuring all occupants.
Five PUPCs were declared dead despite immediate medical response, while one remains confined at the Quezon City General Hospital in stable condition after undergoing surgery.
Four QCPD personnel also sustained injuries and are currently confined at the PNP General Hospital.
One officer remains in intensive care after suffering multiple severe injuries, including fractured ribs, a fractured shoulder, head trauma, and kidney bleeding.
Officials said standard procedures were observed prior to the transport and that the driver tested negative for alcohol.
The QCPD said charges for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide have already been filed against the driver involved in the incident.
The district added that the ongoing review of its custody transport protocols is aimed at strengthening accountability and preventing similar incidents.
It also assured that assistance continues to be extended to the families of the fatalities, injured detainees, and affected personnel.