Dad dies protecting son from gunman

By Franco G. Regala

 SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga -- A father sacrificed his own life to shield his son from his predator.

Last March 1, the blissful relationship of the Sarzuela family was shattered when a lone gunman ended the life of its patriarch at around 11:30 in the evening in front of the victim’s home at Phase 3, St. Jude Village, Barangay San Agustin this city.

Police investigation disclosed that the 54 year old Sarzuela had tried to rescue his 27-year old son, Hener, from his assailant who reportedly poked a gun at his son’s head while arguing outside their home.

The attacker was identified as Emilio Avenido, 52, from Brgy Magliman, was allegedly armed with a .22 cal revolver when he went to the victim’s place and confronted Hener.

Mindful of the situation, the older Sarzuela who was then inside the house reportedly armed himself with a bolo and confronted the suspect telling him to lower his gun.

The attacker, however, fired shots at Nerio “several times.’’

Police said that Hener’s father had fought back and even hacked the suspect that eventually forced the latter to drop his gun on the ground.

Nerio was brought to San Fernando hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead by Dr. Genesis Ipac at about 1:30 am on April 1.

Initial investigation showed that suspect Avenido had fled the scene while Nerio was being rushed to the hospital.

But a follow-up operation conducted by operatives from City of San Fernando Police Station resulted in the arrest of Avenido who was seeking prophylaxis for his wounds at Jose B. Lingad hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga.

Police authorities said it already filed appropriate charges against the suspect. The recovered firearm will also be brought to PNP RCLO-3 in Camp Olivas, Pampanga for further investigation.