Police eye frustrated murder charge in Capiz shooting

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Police are considering filing a frustrated murder charge against the suspect in the shooting of a 48-year-old saleswoman in Barangay Poblacion Ilaya, Dumarao, Capiz, on Oct. 13.

The victim was identified as Juvelyn Tubuyo Homonong, a resident of Barangay Poblacion Ilaya, who sustained gunshot wounds during the attack.

Police Lt. Russell G. Husmalaga, officer-in-charge of the Dumarao Municipal Police Station, said investigators are gathering additional evidence to identify the gunman and establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Husmalaga said police have identified a person of interest but are examining several possible angles before confirming the suspect’s identity.

Initial police reports showed that Homonong was walking home Tuesday evening, Oct. 13, when an unidentified person riding a black Suzuki Smash motorcycle stopped beside her.

The assailant was reportedly wearing a helmet and raincoat.

Police said the gunman, without apparent provocation, fired three shots at Homonong using an unidentified firearm.

The victim sustained gunshot wounds to her left shoulder, the right side of her back and her right hand.

The assailant immediately fled in an unknown direction.

Homonong was rushed to Sen. Gerry Roxas Memorial District Hospital in Dao, Capiz, for medical treatment.

Crime scene investigators recovered three fired cartridge cases believed to have come from a .45-caliber firearm.

Police are continuing their investigation to establish the motive, identify the assailant and determine the appropriate charges.