SIAY, Zamboanga Sibugay — A 67-year-old woman was declared dead on arrival at a local health facility after she was shot by an unidentified gunman outside her residence on the night of March 12, authorities said.
The victim was identified by the Siay Municipal Police Station (MPS) as Wilma Madaraso, a married resident of Purok 4, Barangay Mirangan in this municipality.
According to a police report, the shooting incident occurred at around 9:21 p.m. when Madaraso had just arrived outside her house after traveling from the nearby town of Imelda.
Police said they received a call from a concerned citizen reporting that a shooting had taken place in the area. Responding officers led by PMaj. Arnold Tolentino immediately proceeded to the scene to verify the report.
Upon arrival, authorities found the victim bleeding and suffering from a gunshot wound on the left side of her body. She was immediately rushed to the Siay Rural Health Center for emergency treatment.
However, attending physician Dr. Ruhida Saydil later declared Madaraso dead on arrival.
Initial investigation revealed that the victim was ambushed by an unidentified suspect shortly after reaching the vicinity of her home. The gunman reportedly fired at her using a 9mm pistol, based on the bullet evidence recovered by investigators at the crime scene.
After carrying out the attack, the suspect quickly fled toward the direction of the town proper, police said.
Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the killing. Investigators said they are currently looking into several possible angles as part of the ongoing probe.
Meanwhile, the Siay Municipal Police Station has launched a hot pursuit operation in an effort to identify and arrest the suspect who remains at large.
Police are also urging witnesses or individuals with information related to the incident to come forward to help in the investigation as the community reels from the fatal shooting of the elderly resident.