MANILA, Philippines - An 11-year-old boy was accidentally killed by a stray bullet after a police officer reportedly fired his gun in Tondo, Manila Saturday afternoon.
Investigators said John Michael Agao, a resident of Perla street in barangay 121, was hit by a stray bullet when Police Officer 1 Alan Ruiz of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) fired his gun at around 3:45 p.m. for no apparent reason.
PO2 Vergel Sison said Ruiz was reportedly drunk when he fired his gun at the ground while he was walking near the corner of Perla and Quirino streets. The bullet reportedly ricocheted and hit the child.
Sison said witnesses told them Ruiz likes to fire his gun or threaten people whenever he is drunk. Ruiz fled after the incident and has not reported to the NCRPO, according to Sison.
Superintendent Alex Navarette, Police Station 1 commander, said they are going to file charges against Ruiz.