Tanod killed, 2 hurt in gunfight between Abra mayoral bets’ henchmen

LAGAYAN, Abra -- A barangay tanod was killed while two others were wounded here when supporters of mayoralty candidates Jendrix Luna and Edmarc Crisologo exchanged fire May 9 around 7:30 a.m. 

The incident resulted in the killing of Manuel Zacarias 49 and wounding of Randy Viloria, both supporters of Luna and wounding of Joel Almazan Donato, 41, a supporter of Crisologo.

Investigation disclosed that a group of 10 supporters of Crisologo were on their way to vote when the group of Zacarias and Viloria allegedly accosted them which resulted in a heated altercation between Viloria and a certain Rhil Andres. After which, a gunshot was heard which was followed by exchange of gun fire from both sides.

Police searched all individuals at the polling place and confiscated from the following persons the following items: Merly Cabangan, 53, Cal. 25, magazine, 8 bullets; Charlyn Mae Galero, 38, Cal. 38, 14 ammunitions; Simay Alucday, 27, Cal. 45, six bullets; Rhil Andres, 36, Cal 45, three magazines with eight ammunition; John Lord Bella,  21, shotgun, green Nissan Frontier; Rochelle Donato, 20, 9mm pistol and Eva Alucday, 27, Cal. 45, one one magazine with seven bullets.

Police found 14 fired Cal. 45 bullets and an empty shell for 16 rifle.

A clearing operation conducted by members of 24Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army resulted in recovery of an M16 Colt rifle with long magazine loaded with 22 live ammunition and 40MM M203 grenade launcher.

All arrestged suspects were brought to Abra Provincial Police Office where charges were prepared against them.