STA. JOSEFA, Agusan del Sur — A deadly shooting incident left a former barangay official and his sister-in-law dead in Purok 10, Poblacion, Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur on Monday, June 22, 2026, in a crime that has stunned residents and raised concerns over violence stemming from family disputes.
The victims were identified as Diosdado Cagatin, a former barangay kagawad, and his sister-in-law, Lisa Castro. Both sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the attack and were pronounced dead as a result of their injuries.
Initial reports indicated that the shooting occurred between 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in the village center of Poblacion. Authorities said the gunman allegedly opened fire on the victims, triggering panic among residents and prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement units.
In a disturbing development, preliminary information revealed that the suspect is reportedly the younger brother of Cagatin, making the incident a tragic case of violence within an extended family. Investigators have yet to determine what prompted the fatal attack, but they are exploring all possible motives, including personal and family-related conflicts.
Police officers quickly responded to the scene and launched a pursuit operation that resulted in the suspect’s arrest shortly after the shooting. The alleged gunman is now under police custody while authorities prepare the filing of appropriate criminal charges.
The deaths of Cagatin and Castro have sent shockwaves through the community of Sta. Josefa, where both victims were known among residents. Their sudden and violent deaths have left relatives, friends, and neighbors grieving and searching for answers.
Authorities are continuing their investigation by gathering witness statements, examining evidence recovered from the scene, and reconstructing the events that led to the shooting. Investigators are also working to establish the exact sequence of events and determine whether there were prior incidents or disputes that may have contributed to the violence.
Police assured the public that a thorough and impartial investigation is underway to ensure justice for the victims and accountability for the suspect.
As the community mourns the loss of two lives, residents are hoping for swift justice while authorities continue to uncover the full circumstances surrounding one of the municipality’s most shocking crimes in recent months.