DINAS, Zamboanga del Sur — A 29-year-old man identified as Brian Delos Santos was shot dead allegedly by his fellow drinking companion, identified as Jerlito Rama, 24, following a heated argument in Barangay Ignacio Garatta, Dinas, Zamboanga del Sur, on the evening of August 22, 2026.
According to the initial report from the Dinas Municipal Police Station, Delos Santos and Rama were among a group of individuals who had been drinking when an argument reportedly broke out between the two.
The confrontation later escalated, resulting in the fatal shooting of Delos Santos at around 10:50 p.m.
Police said Rama allegedly followed or waited for Delos Santos along a dark and secluded portion of Barangay Ignacio Garatta. Residents in the area reportedly heard the two men arguing before several gunshots rang out.
Responding personnel from the Dinas Municipal Police Station immediately proceeded to the reported location after receiving information about the shooting.
Upon arrival, police found Delos Santos lying lifeless along the roadside near a cornfield. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was subsequently declared dead at the scene by the Municipal Health Officer.
Suspect Flees After Shooting
Following the incident, Rama, a farmer and resident of Barangay Ignacio Garatta, reportedly fled the area and headed toward San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur.
The Dinas police immediately launched a hot pursuit operation to locate and arrest Rama, who remained at large as of the latest available information.
Authorities are continuing to track the suspect while conducting follow-up operations in coordination with other police units in the area.
Investigation Ongoing
The police investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what triggered the argument between Delos Santos and Rama and how the confrontation escalated into a deadly shooting.
Investigators are also gathering statements from witnesses and other individuals who may have been present during or shortly before the incident.
Police have yet to disclose additional details regarding the firearm allegedly used in the shooting or whether it has been recovered.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have information regarding Rama’s whereabouts or the circumstances surrounding the killing to coordinate with the Dinas Municipal Police Station.
The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against the suspect will be subject to the appropriate legal proceedings should he be arrested and formally charged.