2026-04-15

TRAGIC FLYOVER CRASH: Kin keen on filing charges vs ambu driver

Local

THE grieving family of a college student who was hit and killed by an ambulance is crying for justice.

The grandfather of Braille Nichole Kwek, an engineering student of the University of San Carlos (USC), said they are now in the process of filing a case against the driver of the emergency vehicle involved in the flyover crash on Archbishop Reyes Avenue that killed his granddaughter.

In an interview on Wednesday, April 15, the victim’s grandfather, identified as Richard, confirmed that they have already communicated with the other party and acknowledged their explanation.

However, he said the family has decided to pursue legal action following the loss of his granddaughter.

"Wala'y taw gusto ma-aksidente pero kadtong iyahang gibuhat reckless gyud to. He [knows], kahibaw siya nga sala gyud to niya," he said.

He said the family continues to seek justice as the investigation moves forward.

He described her as a dedicated student who had been a scholar since high school in Camotes Island, where their family resides.

The grandparent recalled his promise to support Kwek through her education, adding that he provided her accommodation in their apartment when she moved to Cebu City for college.

Police took Kevin Ryan Gesta, 23, driver of the Apas Emergency Response Team ambulance, into custody for investigation and possible filing of charges following the fatal crash involving Kwek.

The Cebu City Police Office Traffic Enforcement Unit said it placed Gesta under custody as investigators work to establish what happened.

Initial reports said the ambulance allegedly counterflowed before it collided with the motorcycle Kwek was riding, resulting in her death.

Authorities continue their investigation to verify the circumstances of the incident.

Kwek was a Mechanical Engineering student at the USC and served as a writer for the Mechanical Engineering Council.

In several memorial posts done by people close to her, she was described as a student-leader, beauty enthusiast, math achiever, writer, and friend.

She studied at Camotes National High School, where she excelled in science and mathematics competitions and represented the school in district-level contests.

She also joined pageants and school activities, placing first runner-up and earning Ms. Congeniality and Ms. Photogenic titles.

USC expressed grief over her death, saying, “Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn a profound loss within our family,” and added, “The vibrant light of one of our own…was dimmed far too soon.”

The university extended condolences to the family and prayers for the 19-year-old student driver, who remains in critical condition.(MyTVCebu)