A rider was killed while his companion lost a leg after the motorcycle they were riding hit a jeepney in Barangay Anolid, Mangaldan, Pangasinan on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

The victims were identified as Michael Naraja, 32, and his cousin Chester Sarmiento, 28.

According to investigators, the motorcycle was speeding along the national highway when it attempted to overtake but struck the side of the jeepney.

The impact was so strong that the jeepney’s spare tire came loose and hit a passing tricycle.

The tricycle driver suffered minor injuries, while the jeepney driver was unharmed.

PCpt. Jerome Marquez, Deputy Chief of the Mangaldan PNP, said alcohol was involved.

"Yes, Sir, nakainom. Sa impact po kasi niya, Sir, ‘yung sa jeep hindi po basta-basta matatanggal ‘yung gulong, Sir... kaya tingin namin mabilis po ito," Marquez said.

The cousins were on their way home from Dagupan City when the accident happened.

Naraja, who died on the spot, leaves behind two young children.

His grieving mother, Mely Naraja, shared their struggles:

"Kasama niya 'yung isang pamangkin ko din, yung pamangkin ko naputol ang isang paa... Sabi ko sa mga anak ko kung magkano ang ibibigay nila kasi mahirap ang buhay niya. Bahala na kung magkano ibigay nila kasi talagang walang-wala ako, nag-andibalet yung anak ko. Kaya wala akong pera ngayon, kapos talaga," she said.