TWENTY-THREE people were injured, including a mother and child who sustained serious injuries, when a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) collided with a van carrying tourists in La Union on Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred on the national highway in Barangay Ili Sur, San Juan, La Union, according to a report by GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon.
Police investigations revealed that the SUV, driven by a 13-year-old girl, allegedly swerved into the oncoming lane on a curve, causing the collision with the tourist van heading north. Authorities reported that the teenage driver had allegedly stolen the SUV from her home.
The young driver was among those injured, along with another underage passenger.
The teenage driver is currently in the custody of the City Social Welfare and Development office while authorities work to gather statements from those involved in the accident.
The injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The severity of the injuries sustained by the mother and child remains unclear pending further updates from medical personnel.
The incident highlights the dangers of underage driving and the importance of road safety. Further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of liability and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
metrosundaily
