Family of USC Students to File Charges Against Ambulance Driver After Fatal Crash
The family of two University of San Carlos (USC) students is preparing to file criminal charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, serious physical injury, and property damage against the driver of a Barangay Apas ambulance. This follows a devastating collision that occurred on Tuesday afternoon, April 14, 2026, on the flyover along Archbishop Reyes Avenue in Barangay Luz, Cebu City.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to the investigation by the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) of the Cebu City Police Office, the victims were traveling in their proper lane on a motorcycle. The motorcycle was driven by Juan Antonio Seares Ladioray, 19, from Barangay Kalunasan, with passenger Braille Nichole Kwek, 18, a resident of Barangay Santa Cruz. The ambulance, which was transporting a patient to a hospital, reportedly counterflowed at high speed on the flyover and struck the oncoming motorcycle.
The impact ejected both individuals from the motorcycle. Tragically, Kwek sustained severe injuries and died at the scene after the ambulance's wheel ran over her head. Ladioray survived and is currently in stable condition at a private hospital. Police Major Kenneth Paul Albotra, TEU chief, confirmed that documents are being prepared to file charges against Kevin Ryan Gesta, the 23-year-old ambulance driver from NHA, Barangay Busay.
Police Emphasize Accountability for Emergency Vehicles
Major Albotra provided a critical clarification regarding emergency vehicle protocols. While ambulances, police cars, and fire trucks are permitted to counterflow during emergencies, drivers must still exercise extreme caution. "They may counterflow, but they assume the risk. Even if it is an emergency, if they hit someone, they are still accountable. It cannot be justified simply because it is an emergency vehicle," Albotra stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Police Lieutenant Colonel Wildemar Tiu, chief of the Highway Patrol Group Central Visayas, noted that drivers of emergency vehicles undergo specific training to ensure caution during responses. "You have to stay fully cautious because other motorists have the right of way. It is unfortunate that instead of addressing one emergency, another was created—resulting in a loss of life," Tiu emphasized. He stressed that drivers are not exempt from charges if they cause accidents or fatalities, even while rushing a patient to the hospital.
Broader Context and Public Advisory
Authorities are also taking this opportunity to remind the public of their role in emergency situations. Motorists are urged to yield and give way to ambulances, patrol cars, and fire trucks when they hear sirens, enabling these vehicles to reach their destinations swiftly and respond effectively to emergencies.
This incident is not an isolated case in Cebu City. Police noted that collisions involving ambulances and motorcycles have occurred before. Furthermore, Albotra added that vehicular accidents involving motorcycles have been increasing overall, with most incidents happening during early morning hours and on weekends. The case underscores the delicate balance between emergency response urgency and road safety accountability.
