NAIA car crash driver pleads innocence

MANILA, Philippines — The driver of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) involved in the fatal crash at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) pleaded not guilty yesterday to multiple charges filed against him before a Pasay court.

The 47-year-old driver from Batangas, identified by aviation police as Leo Gonzales, is facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in two counts of homicide, multiple physical injuries and damage to property.

On May 4, the SUV plowed through the departure area at the NAIA Terminal 1, killing two people, including a four-year-old girl, and injuring several others.

Gonzales was freed on bail on May 16.