BACOLOD City – Personnel of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) arrested a 54-year-old tricycle driver shortly after he allegedly fired a caliber .38 revolver during a shooting incident in Purok Kabugwason, Barangay Mansilingan here on Oct. 1.
The suspect, identified by police as alias “Rod,” was apprehended at his residence by personnel of Police Station 7 following a hot-pursuit operation launched after the incident was reported.
Police said the shooting occurred at around 10 p.m., with the complainant reporting the incident to Police Station 7 via phone at around 10:30 p.m.
An initial investigation showed that the suspect, who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol earlier that day, had gone to a local gym and reprimanded several children in the area.
He reportedly returned to the gym later that night.
According to police, a victim was urinating nearby when he heard a commotion and was approached by the suspect. The suspect allegedly pulled a caliber .38 revolver from a sling bag and pointed it at the victim’s chest.
The suspect allegedly pulled the trigger three times, but the firearm misfired. When the victim parried the suspect’s hand, the gun discharged twice. The suspect then fled the scene and reportedly fired in the direction of three other individuals.
Despite the gunfire, all four victims were unhurt.
Police Station 7 immediately dispatched a mobile patrol unit after receiving the call and launched a hot-pursuit operation that led to the suspect’s arrest at his home.
The suspect was brought to Police Station 7 for proper disposition as investigators prepare appropriate criminal charges.
Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) director Brig. Gen. Rudecindo L. Reales commended the officers’ quick response, emphasizing the importance of immediate police action in safeguarding the public.
“This is what responsive police service means. We act immediately when a report is received, protect those in danger, and take appropriate action against those who threaten the safety of our communities,” Reales said.
He added that police officers must remain ready to respond because every call for assistance matters./PN
