4 dead, 11 injured as wayward cargo truck plows into wake in Quezon

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LUCENA CITY, QUEZON, Philippines — Four people died, and 11 others were injured after a cargo truck veered off the road and plowed into mourners attending a wake in Pagbilao, Quezon, shortly before midnight on Monday, June 29.

A belated report from the Pagbilao Municipal Police Station said the truck, driven by a man identified only by the alias “Gil,” was traveling along the Maharlika Highway in Barangay Ibabang Palsabangon at around 10:45 p.m. when it swerved into the opposite lane and crashed into a group of people gathered outside a house where a wake was being held.

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Two victims died at the scene after they were pinned beneath the truck, while two others succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment at separate hospitals in Lucena City.

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READ: 2 die in Quezon road mishaps

The 11 injured victims, who sustained injuries to various parts of their bodies, were rushed by rescuers to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Police investigation showed that Gil was not the truck’s designated driver but only served as the driver’s helper.

According to investigators, the truck had come from Naga City. Upon reaching Plaridel, Quezon, the designated driver, identified only as “Rene,” allegedly allowed Gil to get behind the wheel so he could rest and sleep in the back of the driver’s seat.

READ: Tricycle driver killed in Quezon road mishap

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Police said Gil allegedly fell asleep while driving, causing the truck to veer off course and crash into the victims.

Both Gil and Rene sustained minor injuries and were treated by emergency responders.

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Police said the parties involved have expressed willingness to explore an amicable settlement, although the investigation into the incident is continuing. /cb

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