Rookie cop dies in suspected accidental shooting

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A rookie policeman died from a suspected accidental gunshot wound early on Sept. 11 at a Philippine National Police (PNP) facility in Altavas, Aklan.

The 28-year-old patrolman sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

Personnel from the Altavas Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office brought the victim to Altavas District Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.

Captain Jover Ponghon, Altavas police chief, said they received a call for assistance around 4:15 a.m. Thursday from the 4th Maneuver Platoon, 1st Aklan Provincial Mobile Force Company at Murayan Junction, Poblacion, Altavas.

By the time the responding officers arrived, the victim had already been taken to the hospital.

Initial investigation showed that a firearm discharge was heard from the victim’s room shortly after 4 a.m.

“Upon verification, the victim was found lying on his bed, surrounded by splatter of blood,” the police report stated.

No one reportedly witnessed the incident.

“But for now, we’re considering the possibility that it was a case of accidental firing,” Ponghon said.

The victim, a bachelor from Barangay Bita, Dao, Capiz, had been in the police service for six years.

Reports indicated that he was about to get married.

In a press statement, Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) confirmed the officer’s death and said the incident is under thorough investigation.

“We extend our sincerest condolences and prayers to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” PRO-6 said.

“The PRO-6 leadership assures them of our full support and assistance,” the statement added.

As part of standard procedure, PRO-6 said it is conducting a full inquiry and urged the public to allow the investigation to take its course.

“We ask the public to refrain from undue speculation,” PRO-6 said.

“Rest assured that transparency and accountability will guide the conduct of this inquiry,” the statement concluded.

PRO-6 emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and discipline within the Philippine National Police.