The driver of a Sports Utility Vehicle that barrelled straight into the bank and killed a bank client while injuring six others was charged with homicide as investigators point to human error and not "sudden acceleration" as the cause of the incident last week.

Edwin Balisong, 57, was also charged with "Damage To Property and Multiple Physical injuries" when the Toyota Fortuner he was driving (registered under the name of Ofelie Bisong) rammed through the BDO bank branch along Quirino Highway in Barangay Pasong Putik in Fairview, Quezon City on the afternoon of 28 December 2023.

Bank client Rosali dela Cruz died at midnight on the 28th at Commonwealth Hospital. Those who were injured were identified as Liza Janap, Maria Papio, Hermie Ocampo, Dorothy Castillo, Jessica Susano, and Edilberto Lazarez. While the other victims have already been discharged from the hospital, two remain under medical care.

Investigators from the Quezon City Police District Traffic Sector-2 said Balisong erred after he bumped into a parked vehicle behind him while reversing the Fortuner outside the bank. He then tried to stop and move forward. But instead of stepping on the brake pedal, he pressed his foot on the accelerator, suddenly propelling the Fortuner straight into the bank, contrary to the driver's claim that the vehicle suddenly accelerated because of a mechanical error.

Balisong's vehicle ran over seven victims inside, knocking over chairs and furniture. It also destroyed the teller's booths at the back of the establishment, before finally crashing into the bank's rear walls.

In a statement on Friday, BDO said it is closely coordinating with authorities regarding the incident and assured the victims of aid.

"The bank has provided medical attention to injured individuals and is committed to assisting them throughout their recovery journey," said a statement the bank released.

"The safety of customers and bank personnel are of utmost priority".