QCPD files charges in fatal Tomas Morato falling debris incident

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Friday said it has filed criminal charges against some officials and employees of several condominium firms and telecom companies in connection with the fatal falling debris incident on Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City last August. 

In a statement, the QCPD said charges for reckless imprudence resulting in two counts of serious physical injuries were filed before the QC Prosecutor’s Office on Thursday.

The respondents include officials and employees of the following companies:

• JCRV Properties Inc./JCRV Land and Holdings Inc.
• Atherton Condominium Corporation
• Smart Communications Inc.
• Edgepoint Towers Inc. 

GMA News Online has sought comment from Smart Communications Inc. but it has yet to provide a statement as of posting time. GMA News Online is still trying to obtain contacts of the three other implicated firms. 

The QCPD formed a Special Investigation Team that worked closely with technical experts and concerned agencies to gather evidence, assess the building’s condition, and identify those responsible for the incident.

Sworn statements have been collected from witnesses and representatives of the involved entities, according to the police. Investigators also coordinated with the victims’ families.

QCPD acting director Police Colonel Randy Glenn Silvio lauded the investigators for their dedication as he expressed sympathy to the victims and their families.

“We owe it to the victims and their loved ones to ensure that justice is served. This filing reflects our firm commitment to hold accountable those whose negligence endangers others,” Silvio said.

On August 12, the victims—all minors and students of Don Roces Science High School—were walking in front of the building when a portion of concrete from the upper structure fell. 

Two of the victims, found lying on the pavement, suffered severe injuries to the head. Meanwhile, the other victim sustained an injury to the arm. 

The victims were immediately rushed to the Capitol Medical Center for medical treatment.

On August 27, it was reported that one of the injured students had passed away. —LDF, GMA Integrated News