Ibajay, Aklan vice mayor killed in shooting; suspect in police custody

Ibajay, Aklan Vice Mayor Julio Estolloso was killed in a shooting incident at the Sangguniang Bayan Office on Friday morning, according to the provincial police.

Aklan Police Provincial Office Police spokesperson Police Captain Aubrey Ayon told GMA News Online that the suspect is now under police custody.

“The victim, who is the Vice Mayor of Ibajay, was pronounced dead by the attending physician. The suspect, an SB Member, is now in the custody of Ibajay Municipal Police Station,” she said in a message.

In a separate statement, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) identified the suspect as Sangguniang Bayan member Mihrel Senatin.

The police report said that at 9:15 a.m., Senatin entered the Sangguniang Bayan Office to request for a copy of local ordinances passed during his term. 

The report said the suspect allegedly approached Estolloso and asked, "Vice, anu ang saea kimu?" (What wrong have I done to you?) before drawing a firearm and shooting the victim without further provocation.

Estolloso sustained a gunshot wound to the left side of his chest.

Ibajay Police chief Police Major Rajiv Salvino told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview that witnesses said they heard six or more gunshots.

A 9 mm pistol was recovered from the scene. Salvino said the police are still validating if Senatin has a gun permit. 

According to Salvino, the suspect ran to his house after the incident.

Authorities arrested Senatin and placed him under the custody of the Ibajay police for proper disposition and filing of appropriate charges.

“This unfortunate incident is deeply concerning, especially as it involves individuals who serve the public in positions of trust,” PRO6 chief Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan said.

“We recognize the sensitivity of the matter and extend our thoughts to everyone affected, especially the families and communities involved,” he added.

Ligan said the Aklan Police Provincial Office is handling the case with utmost professionalism and impartiality. 

“Let us allow the due process of law to take its course while we work toward maintaining peace and order in the region,” he said. — RSJ/AOL, GMA Integrated News