A barangay official lost his life while his companion suffered severe injuries, including the loss of both legs, after a vintage bomb they attempted to open exploded in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya.
According to a report from GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon on Tuesday, the 42-year-old victim, who also worked as a house contractor, died instantly. Meanwhile, his co-worker was rushed to the hospital with critical injuries.
Police investigations revealed that the explosive device was discovered at a construction site linked to the victim’s project. The two men reportedly brought the bomb to a bunkhouse and tried to cut it open with a saw to inspect its contents. However, the device detonated, leading to the fatal accident.
The Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit (PECU) will examine the bomb fragments to determine its type and origin.
Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious or explosive objects immediately instead of handling them. “If you find something like this, report it right away. Do not pick it up, touch it, or try to cut it open. This has happened before, and people have lost limbs because of it,” warned Police Major Nova Lyn Aggasid, spokesperson of the Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office.
