Three killed in Janiuay pre-fiesta stabbing, shooting

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Three persons, including a barangay official, were killed following a stabbing and shooting incident on the afternoon of April 10 in Janiuay, Iloilo.

The incident claimed the lives of alias Jimmy, 66, and barangay kagawad Francisco, 56, both of Barangay Tiringanan, Janiuay; and alias Raven, 32, of Barangay Pangilihan, Janiuay.

Police arrested Jimmy’s brother, 56-year-old Alejandro of Barangay Tiringanan, during a hot pursuit operation.

Capt. Randy Lambungan, Janiuay police chief, said the incident happened a day before the fiesta celebration of Barangay Tiringanan.

Prior to the incident, Raven had come from a basketball game at the village hall.

He passed by the area where Jimmy was and allegedly stabbed the latter.

Jimmy was able to run, but Raven again tried to attack him.

They grappled for possession of the knife, but Raven overpowered the older Jimmy.

Francisco allegedly tried to pacify the two, but Raven also stabbed him.

Alejandro eventually went to the area and saw his wounded brother and brother-in-law. Francisco is the brother of Alejandro’s wife.

Witnesses claimed Alejandro pulled a gun and shot Raven.

Jimmy and Francisco were rushed to Federico Roman Tirador Sr. Memorial Hospital in Janiuay while Raven was brought to Dr. Ricardo Ladrido Memorial District Hospital in Lambunao.

All three were declared dead on arrival.

Lambungan pointed to old grudges as the motive.

More than a year ago, an argument ensued between Alejandro and Raven at a wake of the former’s relative.

Alejandro allegedly ordered Raven to stop gambling after complaints that Raven was placing bets but had no money to pay.

Raven allegedly tried to flip the table but was forced to back down.

The incident reportedly started the bad blood between Alejandro and Raven.

A homicide case was filed against Alejandro before the Iloilo Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Saturday evening.