BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – Eduardo Gabriel Garaga was only 17 when he was shot by a makeshift pin gun in front of the Gaisano City Mall after refusing to buy rugby for his friend, the 16-year-old suspect of the crime who is a resident of Bago City.
Police Station 8 Commander Police major Joerie Puerto said that after declining to purchase rugby, a brawl started between the two which led to the accused to shoot the victim in the stomach.
Garaga was rushed to the hospital where he soon after succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.
Police are still in pursuit of the underaged shooter.
Puerto said that in order to file a case against the suspect, a certificate needs to be issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development to acknowledge that the juvenile is aware of his actions, or has “acted with discernment”.
The police major suggested that the Local Government Unit (LGU) should provide long-term intervention and shelter to homeless minors.
The authories are currently coordinating with Barangay Health Workers (BHW) to help street children to prevent them from wrong doings.
It has been the second incident where a minor has been involved in the City of Smiles killings after Yeshua Torres was stabbed last 29 May 2022.
The tragedy marks the 10th murder of the month.
