Brothers held for killing neighbor

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

Two brothers were accused of killing their neighbor evening of Sept 16, 2020 in New Lucena, Iloilo.

Moses Gerochi, 47, a job hire worker of the New Lucena local government, died in a hacking incident 10 pm Wednesday outside his house at Barangay Baclagon.

Corporal Robertson Jamandron, New Lucena police investigator, identified the suspects as Joemar Soloriano, 52, and Alex Soloriano, 54.

The two suspects are Gerochi’s relatives who live in adjacent houses.

Prior to the incident, the victim had been admonishing his two daughters.

Gerochi’s voice had been so loud that it could be heard at Joemar’s house. Shortly later, Joemar shouted at the suspect challenging him to get out of their house.

Gerochi did not back down, as he indeed went out of the house while carrying a handgun.

Before Joemar could go near him, Gerochi shot the suspect thrice.

Joemar was hit below his armpit, abdomen, and buttocks.

When Alex saw what happened to his brother, he repeatedly hacked Gerochi.

Jamandron said the wounded Joemar even helped in ensuring that the victim could not fight back.

Both Joemar and Gerochi were rushed to New Lucena Polytechnic Hospital and later to Iloilo Provincial Hospital.

But Gerochi was declared dead shortly later while Alex was arrested and detained.

Jamandron said Joemar is still confined and will undergo surgery.

Criminal charges against the brothers are being prepared.