Police file charges vs suspect in Navotas attack on 5-year-old boy
By Hannah Nicol
The Navotas City Police have filed charges of frustrated murder and violation of the Anti-Child Abuse Law against a suspect who allegedly attacked a five-year-old boy.
Mugshot of the suspect arrested for allegedly attacking a five-year-old boy in Navotas City. (Photo courtesy of Navotas City Police Station)
The suspect, a 20-year-old man, was identified and arrested through CCTV footage and witness accounts, police said.
The incident occurred at around 5:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 31, when the victim was found bleeding near the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) ramp along R10 in Sitio Puting Bato, Barangay North Bay Boulevard South (NBBS) Proper.
The boy sustained multiple injuries, including deep cuts to the neck and stomach, and severe facial injuries. He remains in critical condition.
Police said CCTV footage showed the suspect with the victim and two other minors before heading toward a vacant lot where the child was later found.
The suspect was later seen returning alone and had already changed his clothes.
Authorities recovered broken glass, bloodstains, and clothing from the scene, which were submitted for examination.
The victim identified the suspect after being shown his photo three times in the presence of his mother at the hospital, police said.
The two other children also positively identified the suspect.
During questioning, the suspect reportedly gave unclear answers and appeared to be diverting his responses when asked about his motive.
Charges have been filed before the Navotas City Prosecutor’s Office, while investigation is ongoing.
Police urged the public to cooperate as efforts continue to ensure justice in the case.