Storekeeper shoots customer who woke her up

MANILA, Philippines - A 48-year-old shopkeeper shot dead a customer who had been knocking on her store window in San Miguel, Manila to buy mosquito coil at past midnight yesterday.

Policemen arrested Wilma Billote, a widow who owns Jedaan Food Express Store, while still holding a licensed .9mm pistol she reportedly used to kill Rodolfo Beroña, 26. The victim was lying on the street when the police arrived.

Neighbors who went to the Manila Police District yesterday said Beroña would have survived if Billote had not threatened every one who “dared to assist” the victim.

In her detention cell, Billote said Beroña was armed with a knife and a gun and tried to attack her.

A witness said Billote has a habit of hitting customers with her cane whenever she is roused from sleep.

Residents said the suspect has been the subject of an eviction petition from the barangay for being a “troublemaker.” Murder charges are being prepared against Billote.