3 customers hurt as car slams into restaurant

MANILA, Philippines - Three customers, including a seven months’ pregnant woman, were injured when a car rammed into a restaurant where they were eating in San Juan City yesterday.

The victims, pregnant Dianne Usero, 18; her mother-in-law Edilyn Refuero, 42; and companion Eddie Borromeo, were rushed for treatment to the San Juan Medical Center.

Police said Nancy Go, 52, the driver of the gray Honda Civic (PMI-908), and a resident of Abanao, Baguio City, surrendered peacefully.

Initial investigation showed the three victims were eating at the Chowking fastfood restaurant along N. Domingo street when Go’s vehicle rammed into the establishment at about 9:30 a.m.

Go, who also had a meal at the restaurant, told police that she was about to leave the premises when her car was hit in the rear by a passing G-Liner bus driven by Rolando Gato.

Caught by surprise, Go said she tried to maneuver the car but instead of the brakes, she stepped on the gas pedal, prompting the vehicle to accelerate towards restaurant.

The establishment’s glass windows were destroyed and the vehicle only came to a stop in the restaurant after hitting the table where the victims were seated.

Police are preparing the appropriate charges against Go, who expressed willingness to shoulder the hospital expenses of the victims and the damages to the restaurant.