CALASIAO police on patrol. (Liezle Basa-Inigo)
DAGUPAN CITY – A barangay kagawad or councilor was shot dead in Barangay Poblacion East, Calasiao, Pangasinan on Wednesday, May 27.
Investigation said the 31-year-old victim was on duty in the barangay hall when a man arrived and opened fire.
But the suspect’s gun malfunctioned, giving the victim a chance to run towards the kitchen and escape through the front door.
However, the suspect chased the victim and fired multiple shots, hitting the victim in the body and head before fleeing on a white motorcycle driven by an accomplice towards Magsaysay Bridge.
The victim was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead.
Recovered from the crime scene were four fired cartridge cases and one caliber .45 bullet.
Calasiao police led by Police Lt. Col. Rodel C. Gabatin held a case conference to fast-track the identification and arrest of the suspects.
Police Col. Dennis L. de Leon, Pangasinan police chief, ordered intensified manhunt operations, surveillance camera backtracking, and intelligence gathering to ensure justice for the victim.
Lawmen appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report information that may help solve the case.