Driver killed in shooting after argument

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A heated argument that escalated into a shooting ended in tragedy after a heavy equipment driver was allegedly killed by a fruit vendor in Barangay 33 on Tuesday.

Police Capt. Peter John Ramos, head of Police Station 6, identified the victim as Joevic, a resident of Silay City, Negros Occidental.

Ramos said the victim was drinking coffee at a nearby store when he got into an altercation with the suspect, who was complaining about allegedly stolen fruits and a battery.

Police said the suspect, angered by the victim’s gestures, allegedly mauled him, then shot him and fled.

The victim sustained three gunshot wounds to the body and later died at a hospital, Ramos said.

Ramos said the suspect may have become angry after the victim answered back even though the suspect was not talking to him.

The victim was supposed to buy vegetables at the Libertad Public Market when the incident happened shortly after 1 a.m.

Ramos said the victim’s family is willing to press charges against the suspect, who remains at large.