1 killed in drinking spree shooting

MANILA, Philippines - A drinking spree turned bloody in Sampaloc, Manila at past midnight yesterday morning after a 35-year-old man was shot dead by his friend over a misunderstanding.

Ranil Espiritu died while being treated at the University of Sto. Tomas Hospital, according to Senior Police Officer 3 Glenzor Vallejo.

Suspect Ryan Gonzales remains at large.

Vallejo said Espiritu and his wife, Alma, were asleep when Gonzales called at about 12:30 a.m., inviting the couple to come to his house.

When the couple arrived, Gonzales was drinking with two other friends. The couple joined them.

A little later, however, Gonzales and Espiritu started arguing. In the middle of the argument, Gonzales pulled out a .38 caliber gun and shot Espiritu in the ear, Vallejo said.

When Espiritu fell off his chair, Gonzales stood up and flagged down a passing tricycle to escape.