13-year-old boy, father stabbed by snatcher who got in unlocked taxi

By: Annelle Tayao-Juego - 10 years ago

MANILA, Philippines–A student and his father were stabbed by a still unidentified man who tried to rob them while they were inside a taxi early Tuesday morning in Manila.

Agustin Ramos, 37, and his 13-year-old son Nathaniel were onboard the Diumong Taxi (WQT 963) shortly past 12 a.m. Tuesday when a man suddenly opened the front passenger door and grabbed the cell phone being held by Nathaniel, who was seated at the back with his father.

As the two grappled for the phone, it fell to the floor, angering the robber and causing him to stab the younger Ramos’ left hand. The robber kept trying to stab Nathaniel but the boy was saved from further harm by Agustin who shielded his son and received the brunt of the attack.

The father and son were able to escape from the snatcher when traffic eased minutes later and the taxi was able to speed off. The driver, Victor Bravo, immediately rushed the victims to the hospital, where they were treated for their injuries.

According to a report by Chief Inspector Dennis Gimena, the Pandacan Station deputy station commander of the Manila Police District, the victims described the attacker to be around 5’2″ to 5’4″ tall and 20-25 years old, with a medium build and fair complexion, wearing a gray jersey and pants. He was able to open the taxi’s door because the vehicle was stuck in traffic and all the locks were open.

Police continue to determine the identity of the robber and his whereabouts.