Two killed in Sunday shootings

CEBU, Philippines- At least two people were killed in separate shooting incidents the other day.

A 31-year-old man was shot dead by two unidentified gunmen past 3 p.m. on Sunday in Sitio Laray, Barangay San Roque, Talisay City. James Abarquez, 31, was pronounced dead on arrival at Talisay City District Hospital.

Initial investigation revealed the victim was walking along the road when the two assailants appeared and shot him several times.

The victim sustained two gunshot wounds to his body, one to the back of his head and one to his left arm. His assailants immediately fled riding a motorcycle.

Responding police officers recovered a .38 caliber revolver and three small packs of suspected shabu from the victim.

They also recovered empty shells – four from .45 cal. and three from 9mm cal. pistol – and a deformed slug from the crime scene.

The police are now conducting follow-up investigation to identify the assailants and the motive for the killing. 

Meanwhile, a 51-year-old man was shot dead by an unidentified assailant in Sitio Lawis, Barangay Pasil, Cebu City past 10 p.m. on Sunday.

Elmo Sta. Maria was pronounced dead on arrival at Cebu City Medical Center due to gunshot wounds in his body.

Initial police investigation revealed the victim was standing outside his house when a lone gunman riding a motorcycle stopped and opened fire, hitting him in the head, right chest, left groin and genital area.

He was immediately brought to CCMC while the gunman immediately fled.

The police recovered a fired bullet and two empty shells of .45 cal. pistol from the crime scene. They also recovered a .38 cal. revolver with five live ammo from the victim.  (FREEMAN)