Armed man killed in clash with Bulacan village watchmen; cohort escapes

One of two armed men who attempted to rob motorcycle riders was killed in a clash with barangay watchmen in Sitio Gitna, Barangay Balasing, Santa Maria, Bulacan, early Thursday morning, April 16. His companion managed to escape. Sta. Maria police chief Lt. Col. Mark Louie M. Sigua reported that at around 2:20 a.m., village watchmen were preparing for a patrol when two motorcycle riders arrived and said they had just been targeted in an attempted holdup by suspects on a black motorcycle. While the watchmen were interviewing the victims, the suspects suddenly appeared at the scene and were immediately identified by the victIms. Barangay tanods tried to stop the suspects, but the back rider drew a firearm and pointed it at them. A retired police officer, now serving as deputy barangay tanod, struck the suspect’s hand with a baton, sparking a commotion and gunfire. One suspect was fatally hit, while the driver fled toward Sapang Palay, City of San Jose Del Monte. Police recovered a caliber .45 pistol marked “Shooter” with serial number 101000065, two fired cartridge cases, and two pairs of slippers at the scene. The slain suspect was wearing a black hoodie and tribal shorts, while the escaped accomplice was described as wearing a khaki jacket and riding an N-Max motorcycle. The incident was reported to the Santa Maria municipal police station at around 4:00 a.m. A flash alarm was issued to the Bulacan Tactical Operations Center and nearby municipalities to track down the fleeing suspect. Bulacan Police Provincial Office Officer-in-Charge Col. Jay B. Baybayan commended the bravery of the barangay tanods, saying their quick action prevented a crime. “We continue to remind our citizens to remain vigilant and immediately contact the police in case of any suspicious activity,” Baybayan said. He added that a manhunt is ongoing and police visibility has been intensified across the province to ensure community safety. **media[81049]**