Teen dead in hit and run; Chinese driver arrested at airport

MANILA, Philippines — A Chinese man was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Monday after he figured in a hit-and-run that left one boy dead and two girls injured.

Victor Kung, 70, a consultant for Sun Fortune Inc. in Malanday, Valenzuela City, was waiting for his delayed flight at the boarding gate when police officers from the Manila Police District’s Traffic Enforcement Unit arrested him at around 3:50 p.m.

Kung claimed he had no intention to escape but had a medical appointment in Hong Kong so he rushed to the airport.

Upon questioning, Kung said he did not notice that he had hit the victims “because it was raining hard.”  

Kung was driving his white Toyota Innova (TQR-245) when he hit Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila student Jeremiah Erwin Tan, 17, who was crossing the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard near its intersection with Pedro Gil street at around 1:30 a.m.

Kung’s side mirror hit Joanna Roseto, 13, and her friend Princess Delmo, 12, who were also crossing the street.

Instead of stopping, Kung sped away, leaving the victims sprawled on the pavement as other vehicles slowed down to avoid hitting them.

Tan died while being treated at the Ospital ng Maynila several hours later.

Several bystanders noticed the plate number of Kung’s car and gave it to the police.

It was only upon verification with the Land Transportation Office that the police learned about the vehicle’s registration and who was driving it at the time of the incident, police said.

 Charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and physical injuries were filed against Kung.