SUMISIP, BASILAN — April 17, 2026 — A coastal community in Sumisip town was left reeling after a gruesome family tragedy unfolded Friday, when a 47-year-old fisherman allegedly hacked his wife and two children before taking his own life inside their home.
Police and local officials confirmed on Saturday that the violent incident resulted in the deaths of the suspect, his spouse, and one of their children, while another child survived but remains in critical condition.
Initial reports from the Sumisip Municipal Police Station indicated that the suspect, described as a married fisherman, used a bladed weapon to attack his family during what authorities believe may have stemmed from a domestic conflict. The assault took place inside their residence in a coastal barangay, sending shockwaves across the tight-knit fishing community.
Responding officers rushed to the scene after receiving an alert from a barangay official. They secured the area, recovered the bloodied weapon used in the attack, and coordinated with emergency responders to provide immediate medical assistance to the victims.
The injured child was first brought to the Sumisip District Hospital in Barangay Buli-Buli before being transferred to a hospital in Zamboanga City for more advanced treatment due to the severity of the injuries.
Authorities said the suspect later inflicted a fatal wound on himself, dying shortly after the attack. The remains of the three fatalities were promptly turned over to their relatives and have since been laid to rest.
Investigators revealed that the suspect was believed to have been experiencing mental health issues, which may have contributed to the brutal incident. However, police emphasized that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the exact motive and sequence of events.
Sumisip police chief, Police Captain Jakaria J. Muin, assured the public that all angles are being examined.
“We strongly condemn this tragic incident. Our personnel immediately responded to secure the scene and provide necessary assistance. We are conducting a full and in-depth investigation in coordination with the barangay and the victims’ families to uncover the circumstances behind this case,” Muin said.
Out of respect for the bereaved family and upon the request of local officials, authorities have withheld the identities of the victims.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, with local leaders urging communities to be vigilant and to report any signs of distress or unusual behavior that may indicate potential danger.
Police continue to coordinate with barangay officials and other government agencies to prevent similar incidents and to strengthen community awareness on mental health and domestic safety.
The tragedy underscores the devastating consequences of unresolved domestic tensions and untreated mental health conditions, leaving a community mourning and searching for answers.