A 14-year-old skater died after being hit by a modern jeepney while walking along Archbishop Reyes Avenue in Barangay Luz, Cebu City, on Thursday, April 30, 2026. The incident occurred at around 2:30 a.m. near the Tesda flyover.
Victim Identified
The victim was identified as Zhyrine Regis Labra, 14, a resident of Englis V. Rama, Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City.
How the Accident Happened
According to the investigation by the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) of the Cebu City Police Office, the victim was walking along the sidewalk with friends after playing basketball. Suddenly, a speeding modern jeep with plate number NIU 8026, driven by Junel Cordenesa Oman, 28, of Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Apas, Cebu City, hit him. The jeep was headed toward IT Park.
CCTV footage shows the victim looking back just before being struck. Medical personnel rushed him to Cebu City Medical Center, but he succumbed to his injuries that evening.
Driver in Custody
The driver is now in TEU custody. He told investigators he dozed off and only realized he had hit someone after the impact. Police Lt. Col. Jomar Medil, TEU chief, said the driver underwent mandatory alcohol testing as required by Republic Act 10586. They have recommended to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) the suspension of his driver's license.
Mother Seeks Justice
The victim's mother, Cathyrine Regis, is devastated and demands justice. She said her son's friends told her they were heading home after playing basketball. After hitting her son, the driver allegedly did not stop. The victim's friends chased the jeep, and a taxi driver who witnessed the incident blocked its path.
“The conductor was so despicable; he said 'let's flee,' but fortunately the taxi blocked the bus,” Cathyrine said. She wants the driver imprisoned.
The driver is now facing a case of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide, and remains in TEU custody.
