BUTUAN CITY, Philippines — A 42-year-old driver was shot dead by an unidentified assailant late Sunday night, November 1, in Purok 5, Barangay Limaha, Butuan City, police said.
The victim was identified as Eric Castañiares, a resident of Barangay Sacol in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
According to the initial report from Butuan City Police Station 2, the shooting occurred at around 11 p.m. after residents in the area reportedly heard gunshots.
Witnesses later saw a man lying on the road, prompting authorities to respond to the scene.
Police have yet to release further details on the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including how the attack was carried out and whether the victim had been specifically targeted.
As of this writing, the identity of the gunman remains unknown. Investigators are continuing their probe to establish the motive behind the killing and identify and locate the person responsible.
The incident adds to continuing concerns over gun-related violence and the presence of illegal firearms, as authorities face renewed pressure to swiftly identify perpetrators and bring those behind violent crimes to justice.
Police urged anyone with information that could help identify the suspect or clarify the circumstances surrounding the shooting to coordinate with investigating authorities.
The investigation remains ongoing.