THE two suspects posing with their guns before the shooting. (Photo via Marie Marticio)
TACLOBAN CITY – Three students were killed and seven others were wounded in a shooting incident at San Jose National High School here at around 9 a.m. Monday, June 22.
Investigation said several gunshots were heard while classes were ongoing, resulting in fear and panic among students and teachers.
The fatalities were two female and one male high school students.
Police said one male and female victims died on the spot. The third victim, a female, was taken to a hospital where she was declared dead.
Seven students were wounded and taken to hospitals.
Lawmen swiftly apprehended two suspects in a follow-up operation – two 15-year-old Grade 9 students from the school – near the school which is 100 to 200 meters away from the police station.
Investigation added that the suspects were allegedly bullied due to their average and small height and haircut.
Police first arrested the son of the soldier, a resident of Barangay San Jose here and a Child in Conclict with the Law, near the school through concerned citizens and the police. The second suspect was arrested in a hot pursuit operation in Barangay San Jose.
Recovered from the suspects were the 9mm pistol and caliber .38 used in the shooting.
The Police Regional Office-8 assured the public that all necessary measures are being undertaken to ensure the immediate arrest of the remaining suspect and maintain public safety and security.
Additional police personnel have been deployed in the area to ensure the safety of students, school personnel, parents, and the community.
“We urge the public to remain calm, refrain from disseminating unverified information, and cooperate with authorities by providing any information that may aid the ongoing investigation," PRO-8 said.
Police Col. Noelito Getigan, Tacloban City police chief, said the shooting was the result of alleged bullying suffered by the suspects.
Police are interrogating the suspects. Authorities are conducting a followup investigation. Classes have been suspended at San Jose National High School.