A gas tanker driver died after crashing into a warehouse near the Police Compound in Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet at 12:53 p.m. on Tuesday.
The tanker’s passenger managed to escape and was brought to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The crash triggered a fire at 1:11 p.m., which engulfed the warehouse and nearby homes.
In an exclusive interview with Bombo Radyo, FO1 Wylene Smith of the Bureau of Fire Protection-La Trinidad stated that the tanker lost its brakes, causing the accident.
Smith added that the driver was trapped in the vehicle, making it difficult for rescuers to respond, leading to the victim’s death in the ensuing fire.
Firefighters and other authorities are still working to control the blaze.
The Puguis intersection remains impassable, and travelers are advised to take alternate routes, such as the BAPTC Diversion Road to Longlong, Ampasit Road, and other available paths.