31-yr.-old farmer in Tabuk shot dead with M16 after clash with drinking buddy

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — A 31-year-old farmer was shot dead after an argument allegedly broke out between him and his drinking companion in Barangay Bagumbayan, Tabuk City, early Tuesday morning, August 25.

Initial police investigation, according to an informant, showed that the victim, a married resident of the barangay, was drinking with a 30-year-old farmer, single and also a resident of the area, when the altercation occurred at around 3:20 a.m. in Sitio Banagan Upper.

The argument reportedly escalated, prompting the 30-year-old suspect to allegedly shoot the victim using a suspected M16 rifle.

Responding authorities found the victim lying on the ground with gunshot wounds to his head and right arm.

Police also recovered several fired 5.56mm cartridge cases at the scene.

The evidence was subsequently processed by personnel of the Kalinga Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO).

The victim was declared dead following the shooting.

Police are continuing their investigation into the incident, while the suspect remains the subject of a manhunt operation.

The identities of both the victim and suspect and other details of the incident have not been disclosed by authorities pending investigations.

Guru Press Cordillera communicated with authorities, but they are yet to respond to queries as of this writing.

This is a developing story. More details will be provided when information is made available.