Road rage suspect seeks court approval to travel abroad

CEBU, Philippines - David Lim, Jr., the accused in an alleged road rage shooting incident over a month ago, is asking the court’s approval to travel abroad.

Lim, 28, who is facing frustrated homicide and illegal possession of ammunition cases, filed a motion for permission to travel abroad to allow him to go with his family, who planned and booked a cruise tour since last year.

He asked Branch 9 Regional Trial Court Judge Alexander Acosta that he will be allowed to travel from May 18 to June 8, 2017.

“Notably, accused’s travel plans with his family were all made way before the incident on 19 March 2017 transpired and long before the charge for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 was filed with the Honorable Court on 23 March 2017,” read the motion.

Since he was not a threat to national security, public safety, or public health, and there was no hold departure issued against him, he asked that he will be allowed to travel with his family.

Lim alleged it was on March 6, 2016 that his family planned and booked a cruise tour from Alaska, United States of America to Vancouver, Canada.

As early as December 16, 2016, he and his family were able to purchase airline tickets.

Lim clarified that he did not book these flights to escape from criminal charges.

“Accused is not a flight risk. He does not intend to abscond or avoid prosecution. In fact, since the incident occurred, accused has been fully cooperative with the police and other legal authorities. Accused simply wants to clear his name and have the case dismissed and/or be acquitted,” the motion reads, adding he has no intention to jump bail.

Within three days from his return from his trip, Lim said he will present himself before the court and is willing to post additional bail bond, if the court will allow.

Lim was accused of shooting Ephraim Nuñal, 33, a registered nurse working at a private hospital in Mandaue City, on March 19 at 3 a.m. along F. Sotto Street, Barangay Kamputhaw, Cebu City.

Nuñal alleged while he was traversing F. Sotto Street on board his white Toyota Altis with plate number YDR 898, he noticed another vehicle ahead of him was travelling in a crisscross manner.

He tried to overtake but got no chance since the driver did not give him a way, thus, he honk his vehicle’s horn.

Lim allegedly suddenly stopped in the middle of the road, prompting Nuñal to prolong the honking.

Thereafter, an argument ensued.

Nuñal alleged Lim shot him in his right ankle and left thigh. A video capturing the road altercation and the shooting incident went viral.

After the incident, Lim left the crime scene. He surrendered to the police days after the incident.  (FREEMAN)