Couple shot dead in Batangas
CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — A man and his wife were shot dead by their neighbor in Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas, on Saturday.
Ronnie de Torres, 52, and his wife Marilou, 50, died at the scene due to gunshots to the body and head, according to case investigator S/Sgt. Samuel Destas.
Probers recovered four bullet shells at the crime scene.
Reports said the suspect, identified as Lauro Vergara Jr., 48, went to the victims’ house in Barangay Kinalaglagan at around 5:20 p.m.
Destas said the suspect, who was reportedly armed, hurled stones at the couple’s house.
Marilou went out of the house to find out what was happening, but was reportedly shot by the suspect.
Ronnie tried to help his wife, but he too was shot. Although wounded, he ran toward a nearby house, but Vergara reportedly pursued and shot him again.
Vergara fled after the incident.
Probers are eyeing an old grudge as the motive for the killing.
Destas said the suspect was furious with the couple for refusing to lend him money.
Police said they are validating reports that Vergara was involved in another murder case in the province.
Charges of two counts of murder will be filed against the suspect, police said. – Emmanuel Punongbayan
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