Car of theft suspects falls into canal in GenSan

A car carrying three people who allegedly fled after stealing from a convenience store plunged into a drainage canal along Dacera Avenue in Barangay City Heights, General Santos City on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Based on investigation, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to crash into a concrete barrier and a tree before falling into the canal.

Police said the car was allegedly escaping from a convenience store along Salvani Street after the driver allegedly stole items.

A security guard reportedly noticed that several items had been placed inside a bag and attempted to inspect it, but the driver refused and left quickly with two companions.

"Gisita sa security guard, gipa-check ang bag. Na-notice nila nga daghang gipangsulud sa bag. Then katung driver is wala niya gi-present ang iyang bag. Although nag made siya og excuses and then misakay og sakyanan, tulo ni sila kabuok. Sa pagdali nila didto na lose control sila then nahulog tung ginamaheho nilang sakyanan," Police Station 4 Commander, Major Ivan Charles Abastillas, said.

Authorities added that after the crash, the driver and a female passenger managed to escape by breaking the windshield before fleeing the scene.

However, a 20-year-old male passenger was left behind and was arrested later by responding police officers.

The arrested suspect was taken into police custody briefly but was released later after the store management decided not to press charges.

Police said the suspect was made to pay for the items stolen by the driver amounting to more than P3,000.

"Para dili pud mi ma arbitrary gi-release namu siya. Nag execute napud og disinterested to file action ang management sa convenience store," Abastillas added.

Police are pursuing the driver who will likely face charges for reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property.

The Traffic Enforcement Unit is also investigating the vehicle, which is believed to have been rented.

Based on records, the car is registered in Cebu City and has an expired registration. — GMA Regional TV