An overturned modern jeep is seen at the Quezon Avenue–Miriam Defensor-Santiago Avenue intersection in Quezon City after colliding with an armored van that left at least 15 people injured early Friday morning, May 29. (Photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority)
At least 15 people were injured early Friday morning, May 29, when a modern jeep crashed into an armored van and overturned at the Quezon Avenue–Miriam Defensor-Santiago Avenue intersection in Quezon City.
Police said they are investigating conflicting accounts from both drivers to determine what caused the collision.
The crash happened at around 5:11 a.m. along the westbound lane of Quezon Avenue at a traffic light–controlled intersection.
Initial investigation showed that the modern jeep, driven by Roy Calimbas, and the armored van collided after both vehicles claimed to have entered the intersection on a green signal for their respective lanes.
Calimbas said he proceeded when the light turned green on his side, claiming that the armored van attempted to “catch the last second” of the signal before impact, causing the jeep to overturn on its right rear side.
The armored van driver, however, claimed that their lane still had a red light when the jeep moved, adding that other vehicles were stopped at the intersection.
He also said roadside vegetation along the area partially blocked his view, delaying his braking.
A 24-year-old passenger of the modern jeep said the impact was sudden and forceful, adding that he was disoriented and immediately held his head after the collision.
All the injured were brought to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Police said the westbound lane of Quezon Avenue was reopened shortly before 7 a.m. after the overturned jeep was cleared from the roadway, while investigation continues to determine liability.