TUNGAWAN, Zamboanga Sibugay — Three individuals were injured while one escaped unharmed after an unidentified assailant opened fire on them in Purok 5, Barangay Malungon, late Tuesday, authorities reported.
Police said they received the incident report from Barangay Captain Emelita Bandiala, who confirmed that the attack involved three victims identified as Ronjen Romanillos, 40, a farmer and resident of Purok Orchids in Barangay San Isidro; a minor, Jesmark Lamag, also from Barangay San Isidro; and Everliza Bastillada, 36, a resident of Barangay Sisay.
According to investigators, the three were riding a single motorcycle on their way home to San Isidro when a gunman suddenly emerged from thick vegetation and fired at them without warning.
Romanillos sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen, while Lamag was hit in his right hand. Bastillada, who was also on the motorcycle, was fortunate to escape the bullets and was left unharmed.
The wounded victims were immediately rushed to Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center in Barangay Tenan, Ipil, for urgent medical treatment. Meanwhile, the suspect fled on foot toward the mountainous area after the attack.
Tungawan police launched a hot pursuit operation to identify and arrest the gunman, while nearby police stations set up checkpoints to prevent the suspect’s escape. Investigators are still determining the motive behind the shooting.
Authorities said the two injured victims are now in stable condition as the investigation continues.