Police Officer Found Dead in Station

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A 36-year-old police officer was found dead on the roof deck of the Barotac Nuevo Municipal Police Station in Iloilo province early morning of July 9.

The officer, who held the rank of police staff sergeant, sustained a gunshot wound to the right side of his head.

He was a resident of Barangay Acuit, Barotac Nuevo, and served as chief of the station’s Finance Section.

According to reports, the duty team leader went to the roof deck at around 5:28 a.m. Wednesday to retrieve his ball cap.

He was shocked to find the officer lying on a bamboo bed with a visible gunshot injury to the head.

Major Rolando Araño, spokesperson of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), said blood spatter was seen on the floor.

A 9mm Taurus TS9 pistol (serial number TLT88710), a Philippine National Police-issued firearm, was found beside the victim.

Investigators also recovered a slug about two meters from the victim’s body.

Araño said police are exploring all angles, including accidental firing or suicide.

He noted the blood had already dried, suggesting the officer may have been dead for more than an hour before being discovered.

While acknowledging the possibility of suicide, Araño appealed to the public to refrain from speculation and allow investigators to complete their probe.

He added that no reports have been received linking the officer to any form of gambling.

Barotac Nuevo Police Chief Captain Cedrick Cruz gave positive feedback on the officer’s work ethic.

Araño said they have yet to speak with the victim’s family.