VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — A 53-year-old fish vendor was killed after being shot by an unidentified gunman in a dawn attack on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Purok 15, Barangay Bagontaas, just in front of Robinsons Place Valencia.
The victim was identified as Danilo Arbiol Tupaz, also known as “Bruno,” married, and a resident of Purok 4, Sugarland, Barangay Lumbo in Valencia City.
Based on initial police investigation, the victim was onboard his motorcycle with a sidecar and was on his way to the Bagontaas fish landing to purchase fish for resale when the attack happened at around 5:38–5:42 a.m.
Authorities said Tupaz was suddenly shot by an unidentified suspect without any apparent warning or provocation. The gunman immediately fled the scene, reportedly heading in the direction of Bagontaas aboard a motorcycle.
The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the head, particularly near the left ear, which caused his instant death. Responding police officers later found him lying motionless beside his sidecar.
Valencia City Police Station personnel were alerted through a phone call from a concerned citizen and immediately proceeded to the scene to verify the report. Upon arrival, they discovered the lifeless body of the victim and secured the area for forensic processing in coordination with the Bukidnon Provincial Forensic Unit.
In an interview, the victim’s wife, Mary Jane, said her husband had no known enemies or prior conflicts that could have led to the attack. She stressed that Tupaz was a quiet businessman focused on his livelihood.
The victim’s family also denied any involvement in illegal activities, saying he had no criminal record or pending cases. A relative suggested that the motive could possibly be linked to jealousy over his small fish vending business, although this remains unverified.
Police authorities said they are currently conducting a hot pursuit operation to identify and apprehend the suspect. Investigators are also reviewing possible CCTV footage from the area, which is a busy commercial zone near a major mall.
“As of now, all angles are being considered. We are pursuing leads to determine the identity of the gunman and the real motive behind the killing,” police said in a statement.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that may help solve the case.