Gun owner questioned on Nicole shooting

MANILA, Philippines - A man suspected to be the owner of the firearm that killed seven-year-old Stephanie Nicole Ella was picked up for questioning by the police in Caloocan City late yesterday, but was cleared of the accidental death after his gun did not match the bullet taken from the victim’s head.

According to radio reports, Juan Agus, who claimed to be an Army reservist, admitted he was the owner of a .45 caliber handgun but denied firing it.

Agus pointed to his friends as the ones who discharged his gun several times during a drinking session to welcome the New Year.

He maintained his friends fired the gun downward at a canal to prevent anyone from being accidentally hit.

He did not identify the friends who fired the handgun.

Initial reports said seven rounds were discharged from the gun.

Police said they would file charges against Agus for illegal discharge of a firearm.

The Army, for its part, is validating whether Agus is part of its reserve force.

“We have to determine if he is really part of the Army. We have to conduct an investigation,” Army spokesman Maj. Harold Cabunoc said.