DAVAO CITY — Two people were killed while another was injured after a multi-motorcycle collision allegedly linked to illegal drag racing along the Davao-Bukidnon Road in Barangay Catalunan Pequeño, Davao City, early Monday morning, August 3.
The Davao City Police Office (DCPO), through Baliok Police Station (PS 17), is conducting an ongoing investigation into the crash, which involved four motorcycles and occurred at around 2:50 a.m. in front of a gasoline station along the highway.
According to the DCPO, Central 911 alerted Baliok Police Station about the collision at approximately 2:50 a.m., prompting the immediate deployment of a duty traffic investigator to secure the scene and conduct an on-site investigation.
Chain-Reaction Collision
Initial police findings showed that three motorcycles—a Motoposh (V1), a Suzuki (V2), and a Yamaha (V4)—were all traveling northbound along the Davao-Bukidnon Road, while a Bajaj motorcycle (V3) was traveling in the opposite, southbound direction.
Investigators said the front portion of the Suzuki motorcycle accidentally rear-ended the Motoposh motorcycle, causing the latter to slam into the Yamaha motorcycle. The violent impact caused the Suzuki motorcycle’s front wheel to detach, which then struck the oncoming Bajaj motorcycle.
The force of the collision sent all four motorcycles crashing onto the pavement, scattering riders and debris across the highway.
Earlier reports and witness accounts alleged that several of the motorcycles involved may have been engaged in illegal drag racing or “waswas” moments before the collision. Police, however, have yet to officially conclude whether reckless racing directly caused the crash as the investigation remains ongoing.
Couple Dies at the Scene
The driver and passenger of the Motoposh motorcycle sustained fatal injuries and were declared dead at the scene by responders from the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC) of Catalunan Pequeño.
Authorities have yet to publicly identify the victims as efforts continue to establish their identities and notify their respective families.
The unidentified driver of the Suzuki motorcycle sustained injuries and was immediately transported to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for emergency medical treatment.
Meanwhile, the driver of the Bajaj motorcycle—the rider who was struck by the detached wheel while traveling in the opposite direction—was brought to Baliok Police Station for proper disposition and to provide a formal statement as part of the standard investigation process.
Police confirmed that the driver of the Yamaha motorcycle fled the scene immediately after the collision and remains at large.
Police Reviewing CCTV, Appeal for Witnesses
Investigators from Baliok Police Station are now coordinating with barangay officials and nearby business establishments to obtain closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage that may help reconstruct the incident, identify the fleeing Yamaha rider, and establish the accountability of all parties involved.
The DCPO has likewise appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or possess dashcam or CCTV recordings to immediately coordinate with Baliok Police Station or the nearest police office.
Authorities also urged the driver of the Yamaha motorcycle to voluntarily surrender to the nearest police station and cooperate with investigators.
Investigation Continues
The DCPO extended its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased victims, assuring the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal collision and whether criminal charges will be filed against those found responsible.
While investigators continue to determine the precise cause of the crash, the incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers of reckless driving and alleged illegal street racing on public roads, which place not only participants but also innocent motorists at grave risk.
Police reminded motorists to strictly observe speed limits, maintain safe following distances, ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy, and exercise extreme caution, particularly during late-night and early-morning travel.
The investigation remains ongoing.