Two criminology students were shot dead inside a milk tea shop in Barangay Paradise III, San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan, on Monday, April 21.

The victims were identified as Rey Allen Nevado De Jose, 20, and Jeric Castillo, 23.

According to the initial investigation, a street altercation occurred earlier outside the shop following a collision between a tricycle and a motorcycle.

The incident was reportedly settled at the barangay level.

Later that day, a man entered the milk tea shop and asked who had assaulted his son.

When no one responded, he pulled out a firearm and opened fire, hitting De Jose and Castillo—who were not involved in the earlier commotion. Panicked customers fled the scene as the gunman escaped.

Police recovered five empty shells from a .45 caliber pistol at the scene.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who is reportedly a resident of a nearby barangay.

Witnesses said the victims were mistaken for those who were involved in the earlier fight.

The families of the victims were left in shock and grief. De Jose and Castillo had both aspired to become police officers.

Their parents appealed to the suspect to surrender, saying justice would not rest until he is held accountable.