Pinay driver drags American partner dead

MANILA, Philippines — A 50-year-old American died after he was dragged by a car driven by his Filipina girlfriend following a quarrel in Manila on Wednesday night.

Ramsey Awni Rayyis was rushed to the Philippine General Hospital where he died while being treated, police said.

Witnesses told probers that Rayyis pursued a sport utility vehicle (SUV)along Adriatico street in Malate at past 7 p.m.

The SUV driver, Jenevie Daria, 27, pulled over as the light turned red at the corner of Quirino Avenue.

Rayyis approached Daria and a quarrel reportedly erupted between them.

When the traffic lights switched to green, Daria sped off, but Rayyis clung to the car.

The American was dragged away for several meters before losing his grip and falling to the ground.

Daria surrendered to the police, saying she was not aware that Rayyis was clinging to her car as she was driving away.

Police said charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide would be filed against Daria.

Meanwhile, a decomposing body of an American was found at a condominium in Ermita, Manila shortly before noon yesterday.

A foul stench coming from a room of the Manila Residence on Jorge Bocobo street led a guard to the body of Steven Matter, 66, at around 11:30 a.m.

Matter, who had been staying at the condominium since January last year, was last seen on Nov. 10, police said.

The body was subjected to an autopsy to determine the cause of death.