15-year-old student shot by ex-boyfriend inside Nueva Ecija school

A 15-year-old female student is in critical condition after her ex-boyfriend shot her inside a classroom in Barangay Rizal, Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, according to a "24 Oras" report by Raffy Tima and a report by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 on Thursday.

In a statement, PRO 3 said the victim was shot in the neck on Wednesday morning after the 18-year-old suspect entered the classroom "without provocation."  

Citing witnesses, police narrated that the suspect drew a .22 caliber firearm from his waist and shot the victim before turning the gun on himself.

“Both were rushed to the nearest hospital for immediate medical treatment. Their current conditions remain undisclosed as of this writing,” PRO 3 said.

Police are still investigating the motive of the crime and how the suspect acquired the firearm.

They are also coordinating with the school administration to assist with the investigation and ensure the students' safety and well-being

“Crisis intervention services are also being offered,” PRO 3 said.

PRO 3 regional director Police Brigadier General Ponce Peñones Jr. condemned the incident, noting that it is working together with the school and the parents of the involved students to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“This alarming incident reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our schools and taking a serious look at the emotional and psychological well-being of our youth,” he said. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/LDF, GMA Integrated News