A PUBLIC utility jeepney (PUJ) driver is facing criminal charges after the jeepney he was driving fell off a cliff, leaving two passengers dead and 23 others injured on Monday, December 17.
The fatalities were identified as Danilo Dablio, 43, of Tuburan; and Mario Pimentel, 80, of Pigsag-an.
Those injured, including the driver identified as Retchie Macua, were rushed to the JR Borja General Hospital for treatment.
Initial investigation disclosed that the jeepney, which was headed towards Barangay Tumpagon, was traversing the road in Barangay Taglimao when the brakes malfunctioned and the driver lost control of the vehicle.
The jeepney flipped over upon reaching the bottom of the cliff. It was loaded with cargoes and some 57 passengers.
Police said the driver is likely to be charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, multiple physical injury and damage to property.
Superintendent Mardy Hortillosa II, spokesperson of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo), reminded drivers of both private and public vehicles to thoroughly check their vehicles.
"Drive safely, check the vehicle before using it and don't overload with passengers," Hortillosa said.