ESPERANZA, Sultan Kudarat — A 39-year-old woman was killed while her husband remains in critical condition after four armed men allegedly opened fire on them inside their residence in Purok Masagana, Barangay Laguinding, Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, shortly after 5 p.m. on Monday, September 28.
The victims were identified by the Esperanza Municipal Police Station (MPS) as Rhonabelle Lilim Latigay, who was declared dead on arrival at a hospital, and her husband, Ryan Arosa Latigay, an adult, who sustained gunshot wounds and remains in critical condition.
According to the police’s initial report, the Esperanza MPS received a call from a concerned citizen reporting a shooting at the Latigay residence. Responding officers immediately proceeded to the scene, where the victims had been attacked by armed assailants.
Initial information indicated that four men arrived at the area aboard a gray sedan. One of the suspects was reportedly wearing a black jersey jacket and carrying a firearm. The suspects allegedly opened fire on the couple before fleeing the scene toward an undetermined direction.
Police personnel launched a hot pursuit operation following the incident in an effort to locate and arrest those responsible. However, the suspects had already escaped before officers could apprehend them.
The shooting left one member of the household dead and another fighting for his life, prompting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Authorities have yet to establish the identities of the suspects or determine the motive behind the shooting. Police have not released further details about any possible prior dispute, threats or other circumstances that may have led to the attack.
The Esperanza MPS continues its investigation and pursuit operations as authorities work to identify the gunmen and establish their whereabouts.
The incident raises urgent questions about the circumstances of the attack, particularly how four armed men were able to approach the couple’s home, carry out the shooting and escape before police arrived. These questions remain subject to the ongoing investigation.