KAPATAGAN, Lanao del Norte — A payong-payong (motorized tricycle) driver was shot dead by an unidentified gunman Thursday evening, July 16, while traveling toward Barangay Pinuyak in Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.
The victim was identified as Joel Mirafuentes Pombo, a married resident of Purok 3, San Roque, Barangay Tenazas, Lala, Lanao del Norte.
Initial police reports revealed that Pombo was driving his payong-payong and had just passed the crossing leading to Barangay Pinuyak in Barangay Maranding Annex when he was suddenly attacked by an unidentified suspect.
The assailant allegedly used a caliber .45 pistol, striking the victim in the head and neck. The gunshot wounds proved fatal, causing Pombo’s immediate death at the scene before he could receive medical assistance.
Authorities have yet to determine whether the attack was a planned ambush or if the victim had been specifically targeted. No information has been released regarding the identity of the gunman or the direction in which the suspect fled following the shooting.
Personnel of the Kapatagan Municipal Police Station immediately responded to the crime scene and launched a hot pursuit operation in an effort to track down the suspect.
Investigators are currently conducting a thorough investigation to establish the motive behind the killing, identify the perpetrator, and determine whether the incident was connected to any personal dispute or other criminal activity.
Police are also gathering witness statements and reviewing any available evidence that could help identify the gunman.
Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to coordinate with the nearest police station as the investigation remains ongoing.