By Armando Fenequito Jr.
DAVAO CITY -- A police officer here died after accidentally firing his gun inside the police station on Tuesday evening.
This was confirmed by Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Col. Kirby John Kraft in a statement released on Tuesday night.
Kraft identified the victim as Staff Sgt. Renante D. Mercado, a desk officer of San Pedro Police Station who died due to accidental firing while he was on duty.
"Until now, we are still in shock of this unfortunate incident that claimed the life of our dear police officer," he said.
Kraft said he would like to ask for people's understanding and compassion to stop spreading "false and malicious messages" in social media out of respect to the victim and his family.
The city police chief said the family of Mercado is assured of assistance that will be extended to them. He said he will assign personnel to assist in processing his claims for benefits
"Indeed, his untimely passing is difficult to bear, but I hope that his family can take solace in the fact that PSSG Mercado has served his country well," he said.
Kraft reminded all police to take safety measures in handling their firearms to prevent any tragic event like this.
"I have directed the Chief, Administrative and Resource Management Unit to conduct a Refresher Course on Gun Safety and Responsible Gun Ownership Seminar to selected personnel who will re-echo their learning in their respective police station," he said.
The DCPO director said this will serve as a review for the police on how to handle their service firearm properly to avoid accidents.
"We will be serious in enhancing the ability and competence of our police officers in gun safety and marksmanship not to have similar incidents in the future," he said.