Backhoe falls into deep water crossing river; driver drowns

By Mar Supnad

CAMP QUIRINO, Ilocos Sur – A backhoe operator drowned Monday  after the heavy equipment he was driving fell into deep water in Buaya River, Barangay San Tiburcio, Salcedo town.

Police report identified the victim as Roel Urbano, 52 backhoe operator and resident of Baranagy Bagani Tocgo, Candon City.

Initial investigation by the police disclosed the backhoe of FNDCC construction driven and operated by the victim flipped while crossing   Buaya River due to a deep excavation in the river bed.

But the victim was trapped inside the backhoe and drowned.

Victim was rescued by the responding disaster officials of Sta. Lucia, and rushed him to Salcedo District Hospital, Barangay Pob Norte, Salcedo, for medical treatment but was declared dead by attending physician Dr. Joan Gacusana.

It was not known who ordered the deep excavation along the river.