Hatred suspected as motive in tragic death of young girl

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Police are considering extreme hatred as the possible motive in the brutal killing of a 14-year-old girl on the night of Thursday, February 21, in Barangay Poblacion Sur, Ivisan, Capiz.

Major Ruby Magallanes, the chief of Ivisan Police, reported that Louie Lipalim accused Angel de Jose of stealing his money, which may have led to the vicious attack where the victim was stabbed multiple times, resulting in her immediate death.

She stated that a murder charge is to be filed against Lipalim, who is currently in custody at the Ivisan PNP station.

Lipalim, originally from Lambunao, Iloilo, and temporarily residing in Barangay Poblacion Sur, Ivisan, was arrested on the morning of February 23. He had been admitted to Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital after he allegedly attempted suicide by ingesting poison.

Saldo Aragon informed the Ivisan Police of Lipalim’s whereabouts following the suspect’s request to surrender in the wake of the crime.

The adolescent victim succumbed to a lethal stab wound on the left side of her body, with the knife left lodged within her. Lipalim quickly fled the scene following the act.

Investigations indicated that the victim spent the previous evening at the suspect’s home.

During a drinking session with friends, Lipalim sent the girl to purchase cigarettes. It was after his friends had left, leaving Lipalim and the girl alone, that the dreadful incident took place.

Lorena De Jose, the victim’s grandmother, said that Angel had lived with her for about three years, with her mother located in Manila and her father in Barangay Ondoy, Ivisan. She mentioned that her granddaughter had previously been accused of theft.

Further investigation suggested that the victim may have stolen P500 from Lipalim prior to the incident, which could have precipitated the deadly encounter.

Jet Villanueva, who had taken in Lipalim for his good work as a farmhand, was stunned by the crime.

In the meantime, the municipal government of Ivisan has committed to covering the funeral costs for the victim.

Mayor Felipe Neri Yap also stated that the provincial government would provide financial assistance to the victim’s family.