Francis Magalona nabbed with dope after car chase

Police arrested musician and television host Francis Magalona after a high-speed chase in Quezon City Monday night, after he and a male companion were caught smoking marijuana inside his vehicle.

Magalona, 36, a resident of 1011 Cherry Woodlane, Cottonwood Heights, Antipolo City, was detained at the Central Police District headquarters as he awaits proper charges.

Detained with the singer was his companion, Alfredo delos Reyes, 31, of 42 Colorado St., Barangay Ilaya Barangka, Makati City.

Initial investigation showed that the incident took place at about 5:50 p.m. on Fourth Street and Doña Hemady in New Manila, Quezon City. PO3 James Bautista and PO1 Miguel Cordero were on board their patrol car conducting a routine check of the area, when they spotted a black Honda CRV (WJM-853) parked on the side of the road.

When the policemen stopped to check, they were surprised to see Magalona and Delos Reyes smoking marijuana.

Upon seeing the cops, Magalona, who was in the driver’s seat, suddenly sped-off, triggering a high-speed chase which took them to E. Rodriguez Boulevard.

Despite several signals and warnings for the suspects to pullover, Magalona ignored them and even bumped the police car after it caught up with his vehicle.

This prompted the policemen to pull-out their firearms and shoot the tire of the suspects’ car. Magalona eventually stopped at Sta. Cecilia Street near E. Rodriguez.

The two were immediately arrested as police seized from them an improvised tooter, two sticks of marijuana, and a still undetermined quantity of dried marijuana leaves.