Five persons under police custody (PUPCs) died while several others, including police escorts, were injured after a police vehicle crashed into a wall along Payatas Road on Friday morning, April 24, prompting the Quezon City government to extend assistance and call for a thorough investigation.
According to initial reports from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), the incident occurred past 11:00 a.m. at the corner of Payatas Road and Group 5 in Barangay Payatas B. A police mobile identified as a Hilux patrol car from Police Station 15, driven by Patrolman Jay Materum, was transporting six PUPCs to the Quezon City custodial facility when it allegedly lost its brakes and slammed into a wall.
Also onboard were escorting officers, PMSgt. Meynard Ramos and patrolmen Ronnie Santoyo and Jezzlee Reyes. All 10 individuals—six PUPCs and four police personnel—were rushed to the East Avenue Medical Center for treatment.
In a statement, the Quezon City government confirmed that five of the PUPCs died in the incident, while one remains in critical condition. The four police officers are currently recovering from their injuries.
“Nakikiramay ang Pamahalaang Lungsod Quezon sa mga pamilya ng mga nasawi sa road accident sa Barangay Payatas ngayong umaga,” the city government said, expressing condolences to the victims’ families.
The local government added that emergency and health personnel immediately responded to the scene to ensure prompt medical assistance.
“Agad na rumesponde ang emergency at health personnel ng lungsod upang tugunan ang sitwasyon at matiyak ang agarang pag-alalay sa lahat ng biktima,” the statement read.
Authorities assured that the city would shoulder medical expenses for the injured and provide funeral and burial services for those who died. Psychosocial support and counseling will also be extended to the affected families.
Meanwhile, the Quezon City government said it is coordinating with concerned agencies for a full investigation into the incident, which will be led by the National Capital Region Police Office (PNP-NCRPO), to determine accountability and the exact circumstances behind the crash.
