Ateneo drowning case: PNP-CIDG reconstructs ‘crime scene’ in Aurora

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) on Tuesday morning visited the Dipaculao, Aurora resort to reconstruct the “crime scene” in the fatal drowning of two Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes.

In a statement, the CIDG said its personnel, along with those of the PNP Forensic Group, the Aurora Provincial Police Office, the Police Regional Office Central Luzon and the local disaster risk reduction and management office “started the conduct of the crime scene reconstruction.”

The CIDG further explained that the visit was aimed at determining the sea conditions at the time of the incident; the distance from the waterline in high tide conditions; the location of each player, coach and witness based on security footage and testimonies; and the distance and depth of each player in the water.

READ: Ateneo probe: Players, coaches give ‘inconsistent’ accounts

“The investigating team deployed and utilized SONAR (Sound Navigation and Ranging) to map underwater topography and depth, and 3D scanner to capture highly accurate spatial data of the shoreline and scene,” the CIDG said.

“Additionally, investigators are conducting a thorough safety audit to validate the presence of warning signages and required emergency safety measures along the beachfront area,” it added.

Ateneo men’s basketball team players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died after they were swept away by large waves and drowned while on training last June 8.

The CIDG previously said its investigation into the incident was now looking into possible homicide or hazing cases.

At least 48 individuals had been subpoenaed for the investigation, according to the CIDG.

Last week, some of the student-athletes and coaching staff present at the Dipaculao activity, including resigned head coach Tab Baldwin, appeared before the CIDG.

“The CIDG assures the public that the investigators are leaving no stone unturned, and meticulously examine every piece of evidence, every scientific data point, and every witness account to ensure that justice is served to the victims,” the CIDG said.

In a separate statement later on Tuesday, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the Dipaculao site inspection and scene reconstruction was part of their efforts to ensure the information was “complete” and the conclusion was “not rushed.”

“Tinitiyak natin na bawat ebidensya at bawat pahayag ay masusing sinusuri upang mabigyan ng linaw ang mga pangyayari at maibigay ang nararapat na sagot sa mga pamilya at sa publiko,” he maintained.

“Our investigators are committed to following the evidence wherever it leads. We owe it to the victims, their families, and the public to conduct a fair, objective, and thorough investigation anchored on facts and supported by science,” he added. /gsg/cb