By CESAR JOLITO III

A minor driving a sports utility vehicle (SUV) was taken into police custody after being involved in a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of two individuals and injured three others, including a tricycle driver, at the intersection of Gatuslao and B.S. Aquino Streets in Bacolod City’s Barangay 3 early yesterday morning.

Authorities identified the fatalities as Cheralyn Poja and Redilla Gamgam, both of legal age and residents of Purok Sibucao, Barangay Banago in the city.

Their identities were confirmed by relatives.

According to Police Major Elmer Bonilla, chief of the Bacolod City Police Office’s Traffic Enforcement Unit, the victims were on their way to the Libertad Public Market to buy and sell goods when the accident occurred.

Initial investigation revealed that the SUV hit the sidecar of the tricycle, causing it to flip to the opposite lane.

The strong impact ejected the passengers, leading to the immediate death of Poja and Gamgam.

The injured victims were identified as Openiano Ayco Jr., the tricycle driver; Crislyn Joy Poja; and Roda Tipon.

All are now being treated in a hospital.

The minor driver of the SUV is currently under the custody of Police Station 2 as authorities continue to investigate the incident and determine appropriate charges./CJ, WDJ