Businessman killed, wife hurt in Negros land dispute

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A 57-year-old farmer and businessman was killed, and his 48-year-old wife was injured after they were shot by an unidentified assailant in an apparent land conflict on Wednesday in Purok Caimito, Barangay Bunga, Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental.

Police Major Ryan Villasario, chief of Don Salvador Benedicto Municipal Police Station, said the couple was in their stockyard checking on livestock they planned to sell when the suspect opened fire.

Villasario said the perpetrator appeared to target the husband, who was fatally shot in the head.

The wife sustained head injuries, though it is still unclear whether the wounds were from a gunshot or another source, pending results of her medical examination.

She has since been discharged from the hospital, according to Villasario.

The suspect, armed with a .45-caliber pistol, fled on foot.

Villasario said they already have a person of interest but withheld further details to avoid jeopardizing the investigation.

Police are also exploring other possible motives behind the attack.