FIVE pineapple plantation workers were killed after the hauler truck they were riding crashed into a residential fence in Brgy. Lurugan, Valencia City, Bukidnon on Sunday, February 8, authorities said.
Police said the victims had just finished harvesting pineapples and were on their way home when the truck struck the fence of a house along a downhill stretch of road.
Initial findings indicate that the vehicle may have suffered brake failure before the crash.
All passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals, but five were declared dead on arrival. Three others survived and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Among those killed were three women and two men, police said.
Of the injured, two are women, while the identity of the third victim has yet to be confirmed after being taken to a hospital in Malaybalay City.
Investigators said they are closely examining the truck’s braking system, noting that the accident occurred on a descending portion of the road.
The Valencia City Police Station said it is continuing to gather evidence and statements to determine the exact cause of the crash.
