Gumaca, Quezon – One person was killed and 17 others injured when a bus plunged into a deep ravine along Diversion Road in Barangay Villa Arcaya, Gumaca, Quezon, on Thursday evening.
The fatality was identified as a local resident who was walking along the road when the accident occurred. The injured passengers were transported to a nearby hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
Initial investigations indicate that the bus, en route to Manila from Bicol, experienced engine failure at the top of the road.
According to authorities, the driver attempted to restart the engine using the clutch, but the airbrake system lost pressure, resulting in brake failure. The bus then careened out of control and plunged into the ravine.
The driver, who initially fled the scene but was later apprehended and hospitalized for minor injuries, is now in custody. The bus company is reportedly coordinating with the victims and their families. Heavy equipment is required to recover the bus from the ravine.
