SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – A suspected robber was killed after engaging in a shootout with responding police officers and barangay officials following a hold-up incident at a gasoline station in Barangay Tagapua on Saturday morning, October 4.
The fatality was identified as Chris Jay E. Siano, 24, a resident of Sitio Durian, Purok 3, Barangay Lucac, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. His companion, who served as the motorcycle driver during the escape, remains at large and is now the subject of a manhunt.
Initial police investigation revealed that Siano and his cohort declared a hold-up at the MJP Ventures Corporation Mini Gasoline Station located in Purok 1, Barangay Tagapua. The suspects fled on a black SkyGo motorcycle after taking an undetermined amount of cash.
Personnel from the Regional Intelligence Division happened to be in the vicinity and immediately gave chase upon witnessing the robbery. During the pursuit, the suspects allegedly fired shots, hitting the windshield of a white Hyundai Accent CRDI patrol vehicle. Police officers fired back, hitting Siano in the head, which caused his instant death.
The suspect’s body has been brought to a local funeral home for examination and identification procedures. Meanwhile, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to locate the escaped driver and determine if the suspects are linked to other robbery cases in the province.
The San Francisco Municipal Police Station and the Agusan del Sur Provincial Police Office are coordinating with local government officials to ensure that those responsible for the crime will face appropriate charges.
Police reiterated their warning to criminal elements that law enforcement remains on full alert to ensure the safety and security of business establishments and residents in Agusan del Sur.