Man killed while taking video of heated argument in Nueva Ecija

A man filming a heated argument at a solar farm in General Tinio, Nueva Ecija, was shot, leading to his death.

According to Jamie Santos’ report on 24 Oras Weekend Sunday, the incident occurred on the evening of February 15. The argument reportedly stemmed from a foul-smelling comfort room.

The victim, who was recording the incident, was shot in the stomach and leg. In the video, he can be heard calling for help:

“Tinamaan niyo ako, pre!” (You hit me!)

“Tulungan niyo ako, itakbo niyo na ako!” (Please help me, rush me now to the hospital!)

He was first rushed to a local hospital in General Tinio, but did not survive the transfer to a hospital in Cabanatuan City. His remains were later brought to Quezon City and buried on Sunday.

Investigators said the victim’s group were installers of solar panels, while the suspect’s group worked as subcontractors for solar panel installation.

“Ang sumugod po dito ay yung grupo po ng biktima. Sila po yung nanita. According sa mga witness, medyo nakaramdam din ng kaunting takot o kaba doon sa side ng suspek, kaya siguro po bumunot na siya ng baril,” said General Tinio Police Chief Shariel Paulino.

(The group of the victim were the ones who first approached. They were the ones who confronted [the suspect]. According to witnesses, the suspect's side felt some fear or nervousness, which is likely why he drew a gun.)

The suspect fled the scene using his companion’s pickup vehicle, prompting a manhunt by authorities.

On February 16, police found the abandoned getaway vehicle in Santa Rosa, along with empty bullet shells. Investigators are also determining whether the firearm used is licensed.

The General Tinio Police said the suspect will face murder charges.—Vince Angelo Ferreras/MCG, GMA Integrated News