By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A 70-year-old laborer died after he was reportedly swept away while trying to cross a river Tuesday afternoon in Barangay Guiljungan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental.

Police identified the fatality as Antonio Dela Cruz, a resident of the said area.

Cauayan municipal police chief, Police Chief Inspector James Latayon, said, around 3:00 a.m., Dela Cruz left home in order to collect firewood across the river.

Latayon said they believe Dela Cruz may have lost his footing while crossing and was swept away by the river current.

The victim’s remains were later recovered at Purok 3, located in the said barangay./DGB, WDJ