Panabo City, Davao del Norte — A 19-year-old youth lost his life in a tragic accident after being run over by a trailer truck during an alleged illegal drag race along Purok Cabayao, Barangay A.O. Floirendo, late Saturday night, August 23, 2025.
The victim, identified only as “Rikrik,” was declared dead on arrival at a local hospital. According to Patrolman Ken Fuss Dudley L. Tatad, Traffic Investigator of Panabo Police Station, the victim was reportedly engaged in a drag race when the fatal incident occurred at around 11:15 p.m.
Initial police investigation revealed that the trailer truck had already signaled and was about to make a right turn from the inner lane when the victim, who was speeding on his motorcycle, slid and was dragged underneath the truck. Witnesses said his companions in the race had already turned safely ahead, but Rikrik, who was trailing behind, lost control before the collision.
The driver of the truck—who is reportedly a relative of the victim—was taken into police custody and may face charges of Reckless Driving Resulting in Homicide.
Authorities once again issued a stern warning against drag racing on public roads, stressing that such reckless activities not only endanger the lives of the participants but also put innocent motorists and pedestrians at grave risk.
This latest tragedy underscores the deadly consequences of illegal street racing, a dangerous thrill that has repeatedly turned public roads into death traps.