Farmer killed in Dumarao shooting

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, CAPIZ – A farmer died after he was allegedly shot by his nephew Sunday evening, July 5, in Barangay Gibato, Dumarao, Capiz.

Lt. Russel Husmalaga, Dumarao police chief, identified the victim as alias Arkie, 37, of the area.

The suspect was identified as alias Botoy, 31, a resident of San Rafael, Iloilo.

An investigation by the Dumarao Municipal Police Station showed that the incident happened around 7:30 p.m.

Police said the suspect was drinking with neighbors and friends inside a house when the victim, who was allegedly under the influence of liquor, arrived.

The victim allegedly uttered offensive words, leading to a heated argument and a commotion between the two.

Neighbors intervened and pacified them before the suspect went home.

Police said the suspect returned a few minutes later with a 12-gauge shotgun and allegedly shot the victim in the back.

The suspect fled after the shooting.

Relatives took the victim to a hospital in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, where he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

The suspect later voluntarily surrendered to the San Rafael Municipal Police Station.

Police said he also turned over a 12-gauge homemade pistolized shotgun allegedly used in the shooting.

The suspect and the firearm were later turned over to the Dumarao Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Police said a murder complaint is expected to be filed against the suspect.

Investigators said the suspect’s mother is a cousin of the victim.

Police are looking at old grudges as a possible motive for the killing.