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Cops probe mistaken identity in driver's murder

Published Aug 25, 2025 09:06 pm
POLICE probe the killing of a church driver in Barangay Taculing, Bacolod City on Sunday, Aug. 24. (Photo courtesy of Gracelyn Lobaton)
POLICE probe the killing of a church driver in Barangay Taculing, Bacolod City on Sunday, Aug. 24. (Photo courtesy of Gracelyn Lobaton)
BACOLOD CITY – Authorities are investigating if the fatal broad daylight shooting of a 59-year-old church driver in Barangay Taculing here on Sunday, Aug. 24, was a case of mistaken identity.
Police Lt. Meller Dionio, spokesperson of the Bacolod City Police Office, said that a background check on Efren from Barangay Granada here revealed no criminal record, a finding that aligns with statements from the victim’s family.
Investigators obtained closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera footage showing a black vehicle stopping outside the church where Efren was seen standing by the roadside, apparently preparing to cross the street. A suspect disembarked and opened fire on the victim.
However, due to the rapid nature of the incident, authorities were unable to identify the car’s license plate.
Dionio said they are now seeking additional CCTV footage from the area to gain clearer views and possibly identify the assailant or vehicle.
While mistaken identity remains a possible motive, police are not ruling out personal grudge.

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Bacolod City Shooting Deaths Murder Crime Homicide Driver
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