Amok accused of murder

MANILA, Philippines - A man, who ran amuck in his neighborhood in Quezon City on Friday, was charged with murder for allegedly shooting a woman last Wednesday.

Roger Lusica, 29, of Barangay Bagong Pag-Asa, was subjected to inquest proceedings after a witness identified him as the person who allegedly killed Melanie Penero, 49, at past 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Quezon City Police District director Senior Superintendent Richard Albano said.

Lusica was arrested in his neighborhood at past 1 a.m. Friday when patrolling policemen spotted him while he was running amuck holding a loaded homemade .38 caliber revolver. Police Officer 2 Gilmer Marinas said Lusica was also charged for illegal possession of a firearm in violation of the election gun ban as well as for alarm and scandal.

However, Sannybel Patapat came forward on Friday afternoon and claimed Lusica was wearing a bonnet when he reportedly shot Penero. Patapat said she saw him take off his bonnet before fleeing the area.

Marinas said they have yet to learn the motive behind the killing.