ABS-CBN cameraman shot dead

MANILA, Philippines - An assistant cameraman of television network ABS-CBN was shot dead by a neighbor in Quezon City Sunday, police reported yesterday.

Police Officer 3 Modestino Juanson said they are hot on the trail of suspect Benjie Bate, who fled the scene after allegedly killing Juan Torregoza, 37.

The STAR gathered that the victim was drinking with friends when the suspect arrived, spoiling for a fight with another neighbor.

Witnesses said the victim allegedly tried to shoo away the suspect, who turned away and went home.

The suspect, however, returned minutes later, brandishing an improvised shotgun and shot the victim in the head.

The suspect was about to fire another shot when other men ganged up on him in an attempt to disarm him. They succeeded but the suspect managed to escape. Bate remains at large, the police said.