DAVAO CITY — A 10-year-old boy is fighting to recover after a fishing spear remained embedded in his neck following a suspected accidental speargun discharge in Dumalag 3, Barangay Matina Aplaya, on Saturday afternoon.
Initial reports revealed that the child had accompanied his father on a fishing trip in the coastal waters of Dumalag. While they were preparing for the activity, the father reportedly became momentarily distracted, giving the minor access to the speargun.
Authorities said the child allegedly handled the fishing weapon, which unexpectedly discharged. The spear shaft struck the boy directly in the neck, leaving it lodged in place and causing a horrifying scene.
Photos taken at the scene showed emergency responders and concerned residents working together to carefully transport the injured child to a waiting ambulance. Medical personnel avoided removing the spear to prevent further injury, opting instead to stabilize the victim before rushing him to a hospital for emergency treatment.
The boy’s current medical condition has yet to be disclosed by authorities.
Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether it was purely accidental or if negligence or other factors contributed to the shooting.
The incident has also prompted renewed calls from authorities for the public to exercise extreme caution when handling spearguns and other fishing equipment capable of causing serious or fatal injuries. Officials reminded parents and guardians never to leave such equipment within reach of children and to ensure that all fishing gear is properly secured when not in use.
Investigators are expected to interview witnesses and the victim’s family as part of the ongoing probe.