The 21-year-old driver of the sport utility vehicle involved in the viral hit-and-run incident that injured a Highway Patrol Group officer along the South Luzon Expressway has surrendered to authorities.
In a press conference at Camp Crame, Highway Patrol Group Director Brigadier General Rommel Batangan said Manjot Singh surrendered at his family residence in Barangay Nangka, Marikina City on June 9, three days after the June 6 collision involving Patrolman Jeric Aya-ay of the HPG.
Batangan said the investigation gained momentum after authorities conducting cyber patrol operations discovered an online post offering the same vehicle, a Jetour SUV, for sale. When investigators arrived at the location where the vehicle was traced, it was already undergoing repainting, reportedly to conceal damage sustained during the collision. The vehicle has since been impounded at HPG headquarters as part of the ongoing investigation.
Batangan explained that during the interview with Singh and his parents, the suspect said he did not stop because he was scared and panicked. He reminded Singh that he still has accountability for his actions, and that fleeing only aggravated the situation. He noted that the parents are cooperative, and the mother said she was unaware that her son was involved in the accident.
The suspect and his parents met Patrolman Aya-ay at Camp Crame on Monday, where Singh apologized to the injured officer. Batangan said the family is also considering issuing a public apology regarding the incident. Despite the apology, authorities emphasized that criminal charges will still proceed. Batangan stated they will pursue the filing of the case, including reckless imprudence resulting in physical injuries and damage to property, as well as abandonment of one's victim and corresponding penalties for traffic violations committed.
Authorities said additional video footage submitted by witnesses showed the SUV weaving through traffic at high speed before the collision. Batangan added that they received footage showing the vehicle crisscrossing lanes and traveling very fast, noting that while they do not know his exact intention, his driving appeared reckless. The HPG director noted that Singh denied intentionally hitting the officer. According to his account, the collision occurred when he attempted to overtake and suddenly shifted lanes, resulting in contact with the police motorcycle.
The HPG has coordinated with the Land Transportation Office and is recommending the revocation of Singh's driver's license, citing the suspect's alleged reckless driving behavior and decision to flee the scene as factors supporting the request.
