POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — Two men were injured in a shooting incident at Esposado Village, Barangay Cannery Site, Polomolok, South Cotabato, at around 1:50 a.m. on October 17, following a heated argument among individuals who were reportedly drinking alcohol during a wake.
The victims were identified only by their aliases, Vin, 44, a driver and resident of Octavio Village, Barangay Cannery Site, and Neil, 57, a retired Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) personnel residing in Darbci Homes, Barangay Apopong, General Santos City.
The suspect, identified as Nestor, 55, works as a utility worker and resides in Barangay Cannery Site, Polomolok.
Based on initial information, the victims and the suspect were drinking alcohol at a wake when a heated argument suddenly broke out. The confrontation reportedly escalated under the influence of alcohol, prompting the suspect to draw a .45-caliber pistol and point it at Neil.
As the suspect attempted to fire the weapon, Vin reportedly tried to wrest the firearm away from him. During the struggle, the gun went off, hitting Vin in the side.
Both victims were immediately rushed to the nearest hospital for medical treatment. Their injuries required them to remain confined for further medical care.
Responding police officers apprehended the suspect at the scene following their arrival. Authorities subsequently conducted an investigation and coordinated with the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) to process the area and recover potential evidence.
SOCO personnel recovered a Colt MK .45-caliber pistol, five live rounds of ammunition, and one fired cartridge case. The recovered firearm and ammunition were turned over for ballistic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police are preparing the appropriate criminal charges against the suspect. Authorities have yet to disclose further details regarding the nature of the argument and the specific charges to be filed.
The incident serves as a reminder of how disputes can escalate into violence, particularly when firearms are involved. The investigation is continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting and determine the appropriate legal action against the suspect.