Funeral Van Accident Injures Priest and Pedestrians in Leyte Town
TACLOBAN CITY — A tragic incident unfolded in Barangay Itum, Matalom, Leyte, when a funeral van suddenly accelerated and struck a parish priest’s motorcycle, injuring the priest and two pedestrians, including a toddler. The accident occurred along the national highway at approximately 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, August 9.
According to local officials, the 54-year-old parish priest of St. Peter Parish in Baybay City, referred to as Father “Vince,” had just put on his helmet and was about to mount his motorcycle when the funeral van, parked behind him, unexpectedly surged forward. The collision threw Father Vince against a nearby house wall, while the motorcycle was dragged under the van’s chassis, trapping and injuring two pedestrians.
Details of the Incident
The pedestrians, identified as “Maria,” 49, a resident of Barangay Itum, and her two-year-old niece, “May,” from Sitio San Isidro, Barangay Agbanga, were on their way home after attending a requiem Mass for a deceased relative. Community members noted that the sudden movement of the funeral van caused the motorcycle to be pushed forward, leading to the unfortunate injuries.
The van involved was a white Hyundai Starex owned by a person named “Ernest” and driven by “Joy,” a 33-year-old funeral parlor driver from Barangay Hipusngo, Baybay City. Officials reported that the driver surrendered to responding authorities and explained that they had just finished the funeral Mass and were preparing to transport the deceased for burial. The casket had not yet been loaded into the vehicle when the van unexpectedly surged forward.
Injuries and Medical Response
Father Vince complained of shoulder pain and chose to undergo an X-ray examination in Baybay City. However, even before receiving the results, he expressed that his primary concern was for the funeral van driver to cover the repair costs for his motorcycle, according to reports.
The two pedestrians sustained minor injuries and were promptly taken to Matalom Community Hospital for treatment. They were later discharged after receiving medical care, local leaders confirmed.
Aftermath and Investigation
Authorities placed the funeral van and its driver in custody for further investigation. Meanwhile, the motorcycle was handed over to a councilman from Barangay Itum for safekeeping. Police continue to look into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine any liabilities.
This incident highlights the potential dangers on busy highways, especially involving funeral processions and parked vehicles. Community members urge drivers to exercise extra caution in such situations to prevent similar accidents.
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