16-year-old "frat member" shot dead

CEBU, Philippines - A 16-year-old alleged fraternity member was shot dead outside his house Saturday afternoon in Sitio Pulang Yuta, Barangay Looc, Danao City.

Police said Eugene Palma succumbed to gunshot wounds to his stomach and to his back after he was shot by Ian Laguna, of MPH Village, Barangay Looc, who remains at large until now.

Palma was taken to the Danao District Hospital where he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Danao City Police Station received a telephone call from Fernanda Palma, 42, mother of Eugene informing them of the incident. She narrated her son was outside their house talking with his friend when she suddenly heard several bursts of gunfire.

Witnesses said, they saw Laguna few meters away in front of the house where Palma was. He then fled on foot towards unknown direction right after the incident.

PO2 Marlon Remollo, Danao police investigator, said Laguna allegedly fired at the victim thrice.

Palma succumbed to two fatal gunshot wounds to his stomach and one to his back.

Responding police officers however did not recover any empty shell or slug in the crime scene.

Remollo said Palma’s death could be fraternity related since he has been a known fraternity member.

“Ilado sad ning bataa nga badlungon ug daghan nang nakontra,” Remollo said. — (FREEMAN)