A security guard was killed while his companion was injured after they were caught in a shooting incident along the national highway in Barangay Crossing Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte at around 7:45 p.m. yesterday.
The fatality was identified as Allen Jhon Tabajo, who was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital. His companion, Joel Dura Cadungog, also from General Santos City, sustained gunshot wounds and is currently undergoing treatment.
According to initial police reports, the two victims were riding a yellow-and-black Yamaha Sniper motorcycle (plate number 157MNZ) when the gunmen opened fire. Investigators said the shooters were not after the two guards but were targeting Samanodin Bangkas Ata, a construction worker from Sitio Motorpool in the same barangay. Ata was also hit by gunfire.
Authorities revealed that the suspects—armed with long firearms and riding separate motorcycles—opened fire at Ata, with Tabajo and Cadungog unfortunately caught in the line of fire as they passed through the area.
Police immediately responded and rushed all victims to the hospital, but Tabajo succumbed to the severe wounds he sustained.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to identify the suspects and determine the motive behind the attack.