ZAMBOANGA CITY — A 36-year-old woman was killed in a brutal stabbing attack allegedly carried out by her own live-in partner on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, in Sitio Baluno, Barangay Salaan, Zamboanga City.
The victim was identified as Roselyn Dela Cruz, 36, who was declared dead at the scene after sustaining multiple stab wounds and a fatal neck injury allegedly inflicted by the suspect.
Police identified the suspect as Jonel Dela Cruz, the victim’s live-in partner, who was arrested shortly after the incident through the immediate response of law enforcement personnel and barangay tanods.
According to initial police information, the fatal attack occurred near a creek or riverbank in Sitio Baluno. Residents immediately alerted authorities following the incident, prompting police officers and barangay officials to rush to the area.
The coordinated response led to the swift apprehension of the suspect before he could evade authorities.
Investigators said the motive behind the killing has yet to be established, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the sequence of events that culminated in the deadly attack.
The crime scene was immediately secured for forensic processing while the victim’s remains were turned over to the appropriate authorities for examination.
Police have yet to disclose whether there had been previous reports of domestic disputes involving the couple. Investigators are also looking into all possible angles surrounding the incident as part of the ongoing case build-up.
The suspect remains under police custody and is expected to face criminal charges in connection with the killing.
Authorities assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances of the incident and ensure that justice is served for the victim.
The case remains under active investigation, with police expected to release additional information as the inquiry progresses.