Jaro killing suspect arrested after body found

By Jennifer P. Rendon

An old grudge may have led to the killing of a 34-year-old man whose body was found Thursday morning, June 11, at a floodway in Jaro, Iloilo City, police said.

The victim, identified only as alias Shane, was a native of Isabela, Negros Occidental, and was temporarily residing at Zone 1B, Barangay Balabago, Jaro.

His body was discovered around 7:35 a.m. near the area where he lived.

Police believe he may have been killed late Wednesday evening, June 10.

Reports said residents heard a single gunshot around 11 p.m. Wednesday.

A few minutes later, they allegedly heard a man identified as Jomel shouting at the top of his voice.

He allegedly said, “Sino isog da? Gwa da!”

Police said Jomel was allegedly loitering in the area where the victim lived when the incident happened.

Initial reports indicated that Shane sustained a gunshot wound on the left side of his chest, six other wounds to different parts of his body, and a fracture in his right arm.

Around 1 p.m. Thursday, police arrested Jomel, 44, at Pag-ibig Village in Barangay Buhang, Jaro.

Col. Wilbert Parilla, Iloilo City police chief, said a witness claimed Jomel was with his brother when the attack happened.

Initial investigation showed that an old grudge may have triggered the incident, as the suspects and the victim were reportedly neighbors.

Parilla said the dispute allegedly started after Shane erected a structure in the area.

The city police chief commended the operating personnel for their prompt action and dedication in resolving the case.

“This accomplishment reflects our commitment to Serbisyong Mabilis and our determination to deliver justice swiftly. We assure the public that we will not stop until all those responsible are brought before the law,” Parilla said.

Follow-up operations are ongoing for the arrest of the remaining suspect.

Investigators are also continuing to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the case.