Suspect in tanod's killing surrenders

After two days in hiding, the suspect in the killing of a barangay tanod in Bagalnga, Compostela town surrendered to the authorities Tuesday afternoon.

Juniel Melendres, 27, a resident of the place,surrendered to the Compostela Police Station following the fatal shooting of Renato Cohitmingao, 43, Sunday night.

Initial investigation by the responding policemen showed that Cohitmingao was shot in the head and chest at close range with an undetermined firearm.

The victim was brought to Danao City District Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician. However, the suspect immediately fled after the incident.

Policemen, who failed to apprehend the suspect during a manhunt operation, believed that the incident stemmed from an old personal grudge.

SPO2 Pedro Enriquez, desk officer of Compostela police, yesterday told The FREEMAN that Melendres came to the station around 1:15 p.m. Tuesday to surrender.

The suspect, however, did not bring along the firearm he allegedly used in the shooting, Enriquez added.

Enriquez said charges were already filed yesterday against the suspect before the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor's Office. -Norvie S. Misa/LPM