E-bike driver shot dead

CEBU, Philippines — An electric bike (e-bike) driver was shot dead by an unknown assailant at sitio Atisan, Barangay Cansojong, Talisay City, Friday dawn.

Authorities identified the victim as Rodolfo Apolinario Jr. alias Lolot, 33, of V.H Garces St. of the said barangay.

In the initial investigation by the police, it was found out through the victim's sister that before the shooting incident happened, he saw the victim talking to a man wearing a baseball cap with long curly hair and wearing white shirt.

A few minutes later, they heard from their neighbors that his brother had been shot.

The mother of the victim, Novenda Apolinario, also told the authorities that her son is a close friend of the one named "Bayot" who she believes has knowledge of her son's death.

Members of Talisay Rescue Emergency Action Team (TREAT) sought for immediate medical assistance but the victim lost his life due to his gunshot wound in his back head.

Police Senior Sergeant Noel Timagos, Talisay City police investigator, stated that based on the family's allegation, the victim used illegal drugs.

The police are looking at two angles such as personal grudge and involvement of illegal drugs.

The Scene of Crime Operation (SOCO) recovered one empty shell of unknown caliber of firearm in the crime scene.

Police Lt. Col. Randy Caballes, Talisay City police chief, said that they already have a person of interest in the death of the e-bike driver. (FREEMAN)