Man Killed by Relative Over Garbage Dispute

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – A long-standing grudge over a garbage dispute led to the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old man in Purok Narra, Barangay Lopez Jaena, Murcia, Negros Occidental, on Sunday.

Police Capt. Honey Labaro, deputy chief of the Murcia Municipal Police Station, said the victim, identified as “Edgar,” was walking home with his family when he was ambushed by the 47-year-old suspect, identified as “Arman.”

Labaro said the suspect confronted the victim, leading to a fistfight before Arman allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Edgar.

Despite his injuries, the victim tried to run, but the suspect continued firing until Edgar collapsed.

The victim died from multiple gunshot wounds, and the suspect fled the scene.

Police officers conducting a checkpoint nearby responded immediately and pursued the suspect.

During the pursuit, members of both families clashed, resulting in a commotion.

Labaro said three people were wounded, including the victim’s brother, who was hospitalized for head injuries.

Others sustained stab wounds during the altercation, he added.

Police recovered a knife, a bolo, and another bladed weapon from the scene.

The suspect was later found hiding near a school building and was arrested.

Authorities recovered a .45 caliber pistol from the suspect, along with a magazine loaded with ammunition and spent shells.

Labaro said both families were supposed to meet at the barangay hall to resolve the ongoing dispute.

The conflict, involving relatives, reportedly stemmed from garbage placed by the suspect’s family that blocked a right of way.

The victim’s family had repeatedly complained about the obstruction, according to Labaro.

Murder charges are being prepared against the suspect, and both families are expected to file additional complaints over the second altercation.