Missing Lambunao fisherman found dead in river

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A man was found dead in a river in Lambunao, Iloilo, after being reported missing for two days.

The body of the victim, identified only by the alias “Darius,” 37, was found around 6:30 a.m. July 8 in a river in Barangay Gines, Lambunao, where he lived.

His brother-in-law, Reymar, found the body floating face down in the river.

Investigation showed that the victim left home in the afternoon of July 6.

He told his family that he would go fishing but failed to return home.

Lt. Vincent Garcia, Lambunao police chief, said heavy rain fell in the area that same day.

Investigators believe Darius may have slipped and been swept away by a strong flood current.

Darius’ family told police investigators that he had a history of an undisclosed mental illness.

He was also epileptic.

Garcia said the family believed there was no foul play in the victim’s death.

No visible injuries were found on his body.

Members of the Lambunao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office brought the victim to Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido Memorial District Hospital, where he was declared dead.

Authorities reminded the public to avoid fishing, crossing rivers, or going near waterways during heavy rains because water levels and currents can rise quickly.