Fourth suspect in killing of marine biologist Kent Carpenter surrenders

A fourth suspect in the killing of American marine biologist Kent Carpenter has surrendered to the police.

In a Balitanghali report on Friday, the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office said the suspect served as the lookout during the crime.

The latest suspect, who was not included in the initial list of four alleged perpetrators, already underwent inquest proceedings.

Police are currently in custody of the four suspects, while another one remains at large. Authorities are currently searching for an alias "Eden," according to a report from Super Radyo dzBB.

GMA News is currently attempting to get statements from the apprehended individuals.

READ: Who is Kent Carpenter? The marine biologist whose work backed PH arbitral win

Carpenter was shot dead inside his home in Sibulan, Negros Oriental on July 12.

He was a renowned marine biologist that has spent decades studying Philippine biodiversity. Some of his most significant contributions included hailing the Verde Island Passage in Luzon as the "Center of the Center" of marine shore-fish biodiversity.

He was also an expert witness during the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling.

Carpenter's slay has prompted a public outcry as well as tributes from various environmental groups and academic institutions. — VDV, GMA News