A passenger was killed after an L300 van crashed into a truck parked along Roman Highway in Barangay Batangas 2, Mariveles, Bataan.
The accident happened late at night in a dimly lit area.
According to police, the van was traveling to Mariveles from Balanga City when it hit the rear of a stationary truck.
“Itong truck, according sa driver, huminto siya sa tabi ng daan at nag-park. Ang nakalimutan niyang gawin ay maglagay ng hazard signs kasi ‘yung lugar na iyon ay madilim at 2 lane lang siya,” Mariveles Police Chief Lt. Col. Dennis Orbista said.
“Ito namang (L300), hindi niya napansin na naka-park ‘yung truck dahil madilim at siya ay bumangga sa likod.” he added.
The impact was strong due to the elevated road, crushing the front of the van.
One passenger suffered severe head injuries and died on the spot, while the driver sustained minor injuries.
According to a witness, the truck driver stopped to urinate and later experienced a mechanical problem.
“Ini-start nila ‘yung sasakyan [o truck] nila, ayaw umandar. Hanggang sa pagkatagal-tagal, habang nagkukumpuni ng tubig, may narinig na lang akong bumagsak,” Pipe Miño De Guzman, a witness, said.
The truck driver has not yet given a statement and may face legal charges.
Orbista urged drivers to prioritize road safety, especially at night.
“Pakiusap po natin sa mga drivers, especially during the night lalo na kung medyo madilim, maglagay po tayo ng appropriate hazard signs at laging iconsider yung visibility sa lugar,” he said.