Three people died while six others, including the driver, were injured after their van crashed into an electric post in Ilagan City, Isabela.

Authorities said the van was traveling in Barangay San Juan when the accident happened.

Based on initial investigation, the driver may have lost control of the steering wheel after allegedly falling asleep.

Aside from the fatalities, the injured victims were rushed to the hospital. Police confirmed the driver is in critical condition.

The impact also damaged the post, which caused a temporary power outage in the area.

PCapt. Noralyn Andal, public information officer of Ilagan City Police Station, said the victims were family members returning home from Manila.

“Ayon sa imbestigasyon, sila po ay magkakamag-anak. Sila po ay galing po sa Manila at pauwi na po sila sa San Pablo, Isabela. Lahat po ng sakay ng nasabing sasakyan ay nagtamo po ng injuries at sa kasamaang palad po ‘yung tatlo sa kanila ay kumpirmadong namatay po sa insidente,” Andal said.

Investigation into the accident continues, as of this writing.