Teener hurt in Simbang Gabi melee

MANILA, Philippines - A teenager was shot and seriously wounded at the height of a rumble after attending the traditional “Simbang Gabi” in Marikina City yesterday.

Carlo Flores, 14, a resident of Paliparan in Barangay Sto. Niño sustained a gunshot wound in the abdomen and is now under observation by doctors at the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center (ARMC).

The Marikina City police are interviewing witnesses to identify his possible attackers.

Initial reports showed that Flores and his girlfriend were on their way home after attending the “Simbang Gabi” at the Ola church in Barangay Roque when their path was blocked by a number of teenagers at about 5:45 a.m.

Flores and the group exchanged angry words, which triggered a rumble, police said.

The group ganged up on Flores, who bravely fought back, until a sound of gunfire enveloped the area.

The suspects scampered towards different directions after Flores slumped on the pavement, bleeding.

Bystanders rushed Flores to the hospital.