SUMILAO, Bukidnon — A 30-year-old man was rushed to the hospital after being shot by his drinking companion following a heated argument on Thursday evening, June 18, in Barangay San Roque, Sumilao, Bukidnon.
The victim, identified only as alias “Choy,” sustained a gunshot wound to his right leg after allegedly being shot by alias “Lester,” 43, at around 8:00 p.m. in Purok 2 of the said barangay.
According to the police investigation, the victim and the suspect were drinking together when a misunderstanding erupted between them while both were allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The verbal altercation escalated, prompting the suspect to challenge the victim to a duel.
Authorities said the victim reportedly ignored the challenge and did not engage further. However, the suspect allegedly left the area and later returned armed with a firearm.
Without warning, the suspect allegedly fired at the victim from a distance, hitting him in the right leg.
Despite his injury, the victim managed to flee and sought refuge in a nearby residence, where he asked for assistance. Concerned residents immediately responded and brought him to the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Manolo Fortich for medical treatment.
Police said the victim is currently receiving medical attention and is recovering from the injury.
Meanwhile, the suspect immediately fled the scene after the shooting and escaped toward an unknown direction.
In response, law enforcement authorities swiftly launched a flash alarm and dragnet operation to facilitate the immediate interception and arrest of the fleeing suspect.
Investigators are continuing their probe into the incident to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting and to identify possible criminal charges that may be filed against the suspect once apprehended.
Authorities likewise reminded the public to avoid violence and seek peaceful means of resolving conflicts, especially in situations involving alcohol consumption, which often contributes to the escalation of disputes into violent encounters.
The manhunt operation against the suspect remains ongoing.