MADRID, Surigao del Sur — A married couple was shot dead in a brazen and apparently targeted attack along the national highway in front of Madrid National High School in Barangay Linibunan on Friday night, April 24, 2026.
Police identified the victims as Clasico Gringin Gruyal, 66, and his wife, Meriam Dayon Gruyal, both businesspersons and residents of Purok 2, Barangay Quirino in the same town.
Initial investigation by the Madrid Municipal Police Station (MPS) showed that the couple was riding a motorcycle on their way home when they were ambushed at around 7:40 to 7:45 p.m. by still unidentified suspects. Witness accounts and police reports indicate that the victims were repeatedly shot at close range, killing them on the spot.
Authorities said the assailants fled immediately after the shooting toward Barangay Union. The suspects were reportedly riding a red Rusi Raider motorcycle in a “riding-in-tandem” setup. The driver was described as wearing a hoodie, while the gunman had a cap.
Police have launched a hot pursuit operation and set up checkpoints in strategic areas as part of efforts to intercept and identify the fleeing suspects. Coordination with nearby police stations has also been intensified.
Investigators are looking into a possible land dispute as the motive behind the killing. According to police, the victims had previously received death threats in February 2026, allegedly from a neighbor involved in a property conflict. The threats were reportedly documented in the police blotter prior to the incident.
The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a violent act that has no place in the province.
“We assure the public that we will not stop until those responsible are identified and brought to justice,” the provincial police said in a statement. “We already have initial leads and have identified persons of interest. Follow-up operations are actively underway.”
Authorities emphasized that the attack appeared deliberate and targeted, with efforts now focused on building a solid case, identifying possible accomplices, and establishing full accountability.
Police also urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could hamper the investigation, and instead called for cooperation from witnesses and residents.
“Public support is crucial. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to report to the nearest police station. Justice and community safety depend on our collective action,” the statement added.
As of this writing, crime scene processing by the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) is ongoing, while investigators continue to gather evidence to strengthen the case and ensure the swift filing of murder charges against the perpetrators once arrested.