Cebu Police File Charges in Fatal Ambulance Crash That Killed USC Student
The Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) has completed and submitted the necessary documents to file a case of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide, Serious Physical Injury, and Damage to Property against the driver of an ambulance from Barangay Apas, Cebu City. This legal action stems from a tragic accident that occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the flyover on Archbishop Reyes Avenue in Barangay Luz.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The driver, identified as Kevin Ryan Gesta, a 23-year-old resident of Barangay Busay, was operating the ambulance while transporting a patient to a hospital. According to an investigation led by Police Major Kenneth Paul Albotra, head of the TEU, the victims—Juan Antonio Seares Ladioray, 19, the motorcycle driver, and his passenger Braille Nichole Kwek, 18—were traveling in their correct lane on the flyover. However, the ambulance, driven by Gesta, reportedly counterflowed on the flyover and collided with the motorcycle.
The impact was severe, ejecting both victims from the motorcycle. Tragically, Kwek, an 18-year-old, died at the scene after the ambulance struck her head. Ladioray survived and is currently in stable condition at a private hospital. The grandmother of the deceased has not yet signed an affidavit, which is required to fully proceed with the charges. Reports indicate that a settlement has been discussed between the parties involved, but legal proceedings are ongoing.
Authorities Stress Caution for Emergency Vehicles
In response to the incident, Police Major Albotra emphasized that while emergency vehicles such as ambulances, patrol cars, and fire trucks are permitted to counterflow during urgent responses, this does not excuse negligence. "He can counterflow, but it is his risk if he commits an offense. Even in an emergency, if he causes harm, he will be held accountable. It cannot be justified simply because it is an emergency vehicle," Albotra stated.
This sentiment was echoed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Wildemar Tiu, head of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) 7. Tiu noted that government drivers undergo training, but if a life is lost, they must face legal consequences. "Full caution is necessary because other motorists have the right of way. It is heartbreaking because instead of helping in an emergency, it adds to the tragedy," he added.
Authorities have issued a public appeal, urging drivers to pull over and yield the right of way when they hear sirens or horns, allowing emergency vehicles to pass quickly and safely.
Broader Context of Traffic Incidents
Alborta revealed that accidents involving ambulances are not uncommon in the city. The TEU has recorded an increase in vehicular accidents involving motorcycles, particularly during early morning hours and on weekends. This highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns to prevent such tragedies in the future.
