22-yr-old graduating criminology student dies in midnight motorcycle-garbage truck collision in Cauayan

CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela — A 22-year-old graduating Criminology student died after the motorcycle he was driving collided with a garbage truck at around 12:24 a.m. on October 2 in Barangay Cabaruan, Cauayan City, Isabela, while reportedly on his way home to San Mariano.

Initial information showed that two individuals were involved in the collision. The victim was rushed to a district hospital for immediate medical attention but was declared dead on arrival.

According to the victim’s relatives, he was traveling home to San Mariano when the incident occurred. He was reportedly a graduating Criminology student who was nearing the completion of his degree.

His death came just as he was approaching a major milestone in his life, cutting short his plans for graduation and his aspirations of pursuing a career in criminology.

The victim’s family is now seeking answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the collision, including why the garbage truck was operating in the area at around 12:24 a.m.

Authorities are still determining the identity and ownership of the garbage truck involved, as well as the circumstances that led to the collision.

The exact cause of the crash has yet to be established as the investigation continues.

The incident comes amid other road crashes recently reported in Cauayan City.

On September 19, a woman was injured after she was hit by a motorcycle while crossing the national highway in Barangay San Fermin. Bombo Radyo Cauayan reported that the incident occurred at around 8:40 p.m., citing information from the Cauayan City Police Station.

On September 26, two motorcycle riders were injured after their motorcycle collided with a tricycle along the national highway in Barangay San Fermin. Police reported that the 18-year-old tricycle driver did not have a driver’s license and was taken into police custody.

Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate the latest collision to establish the exact cause and circumstances of the incident.

For the victim’s family, the tragedy has left them mourning the loss of a young man who was only a step away from completing his degree and beginning the career he had worked toward.

The incident also highlights the importance of extra caution among motorists, particularly when traveling at night. Drivers and riders are advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, use headlights properly, stay alert for poorly lit roads, pedestrians, parked or slow-moving vehicles, and avoid distracted or impaired driving.

Motorists are also reminded to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and to avoid driving when excessively tired. Defensive driving and heightened awareness, especially on dark or unfamiliar roads, can help reduce the risk of crashes and protect lives.