By Jennifer P. Rendon
Seven individuals, including four minors, were injured after their vehicle crashed into the center island and flipped on its side in Barangay Mali-ao, Pavia, Iloilo, on the afternoon of January 8.
The victims were identified as Fatima, 39; Loraine, 36; Liam, 12; Adrian, 11; Theresita, 39; Zachary, 12; and Alfonzo, 8, all residents of Barangay Cabilauan, New Lucena, Iloilo.
The incident occurred at around 2:25 p.m. while the group, aboard a Ford Everest SUV driven by Fatima, was traveling from New Lucena to the Iloilo Sports Complex in La Paz, Iloilo City.
According to witnesses, the vehicle swerved to the left and crashed into the center island before flipping on its side.
The driver and passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to the Asia Pacific Medical Center by the Pavia Emergency Rescue Services (PAVERS).
Reports indicated that six of the seven victims have since been discharged from the hospital. One passenger remains under observation after sustaining a back fracture and developing pneumonia.
Initial investigation revealed that the driver may have lost control of the vehicle after dozing off.
