KIDAPAWAN CITY — A police officer was shot dead by his fellow cop in a shocking incident that unfolded around 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, at the personnel quarters near the Overland Terminal in Kidapawan City, Cotabato.
The victim was identified as Police Corporal Kim Lloyd Pedregosa, a 30-year-old resident of M’lang, Cotabato. Initial reports said he sustained two gunshot wounds to the head and three more to his body. He was rushed to a private hospital but was declared dead shortly after arrival.
The suspect, identified as Police Corporal Renante Villanueva, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, reportedly engaged in a heated argument with Pedregosa before opening fire using a 9mm pistol. At least nine spent shells were recovered at the crime scene.
Authorities are eyeing personal grudge as the possible motive behind the fatal shooting. A hot pursuit operation is ongoing to track down Villanueva, who immediately fled after the incident.
Police appealed to the public to remain vigilant and to report any information regarding the whereabouts of Cpl. Villanueva to the Kidapawan City Police Station or the nearest police unit.
The incident has raised serious concern within the ranks of law enforcement, with investigators now digging deeper into the case while efforts intensify to bring the suspect to justice.