2 killed, 4 hurt in QC smashup

MANILA, Philippines –  A caterer and her helper died while four others were injured in a collision between two Asian utility vehicles at an intersection in Quezon City before dawn yesterday.

Hilaria Garcia, 63, of Barangay West Kamias, and Miguela Fernandez, 42, were rushed to the East Avenue Medical Center but were declared dead on arrival.

Traffic investigator Senior Police Officer 1 Ricardo Escorpiso said Garcia and Fernandez were aboard Garcia’s black Toyota Revo (WHA-639) when it was rammed by a silver Toyota Innova (PQI-851) at around 2:30 a.m. at the corner of K-H and K-7th streets in Barangay West Kamias.

Garcia’s son-in-law, Jeffrey Yumul, 42; his wife Heidi, 42, were rushed to the EAMC while their maid, Gelyn Bacud, 30, was brought to the Capitol Medical Center.

College student Areld Jan Payofelin, 24, who was driving the Innova, remains confined at the St. Luke’s Medical Center for injuries he sustained.

Quezon City rescue teams were the first to respond to the scene and rush all six victims to different hospitals.

Escorpiso said Payofelin faces charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries and damage to properties.

Yesterday morning, Garcia and her companions were on their way to the market to buy supplies for her catering business.

The Revo was cruising along K-H street when Payofelin’s Innova rammed the driver’s side doors. Escorpiso said the impact caused both vehicles to spin, and the Revo slammed against a concrete telephone post.