A motorcycle driver was killed while his back rider was injured after a collision with a sports utility vehicle along the national highway in Barangay Maluay, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 4.
Authorities identified the fatality as Mark Leonard Pagador, while the injured back rider was identified as Kent Baron, both of Brgy. Sac-sac, Bacong.
The driver of the Toyota Fortuner involved in the accident was identified as Gideon Ragay Napigkit, 74, of Brgy. Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, who was also brought to the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital after he was found unconscious following the collision.
Initial investigation showed that the motorcycle was traveling southbound from Bacong to Siaton, while the Fortuner was traveling northbound from Bayawan to Sibulan.
Witnesses told police that the Fortuner allegedly crossed into the opposite lane and collided with the motorcycle.
Police said the motorcycle driver attempted to evade the vehicle but failed, causing both riders to be thrown from the motorcycle upon impact.
The motorcycle driver was declared dead at the scene, while the back rider sustained injuries and was brought to Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital.
Both vehicles were taken to the police station for proper disposition.*