A 50-year-old man was shot dead inside his own residence in a late-night attack on March 26, 2026, in Purok 6, Barangay Bagontaas, Valencia City, prompting an ongoing police investigation and manhunt for the suspect.
The victim was identified as Benito Mabito, a bachelor and a glass installer, who was also a resident of the said barangay.
According to initial police reports, the incident occurred at around 9:00 p.m. when an unidentified male suspect forcibly entered the victim’s home. Without any clear provocation or known motive, the assailant suddenly drew a firearm and shot Mabito in the chest at close range.
After carrying out the attack, the suspect immediately fled the scene, leaving the victim critically wounded.
Responders rushed Mabito to Polymedic Hospital in Valencia City for emergency medical treatment. However, attending physicians declared him dead on arrival due to the severity of the gunshot wound.
Authorities quickly launched a hot pursuit operation in an effort to identify and apprehend the suspect, who remains at large as of this writing.
Police investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview possible witnesses to determine the motive behind the killing. As of now, no suspects have been identified, and officials have not ruled out any angle, including personal grudges or other possible motives.
The incident has raised concern among residents of Barangay Bagontaas, as authorities assured the public that intensified security measures and follow-up operations are underway to ensure justice for the victim and prevent similar incidents.