CAGAYAN, Philippines — Authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma, with initial findings pointing to a possible sniper attack, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday.
In a press briefing, PNP Public Information Office Chief, Police Colonel Randulf Tuaño, revealed that the initial investigation suggests the shot came from a sniper rifle, fired from an elevated vantage point.
“Only one shot was heard, and it came from outside the scene. A sniper rifle may have been used, as we recovered a single 5.86 caliber shell from the site,” said Tuaño.
The bullet struck Mayor Ruma in the right shoulder, exiting through his back, based on the police report. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. Ruma was rushed to Tuao District Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival at 10:31 p.m.
In addition to the mayor’s death, three other individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Authorities are now examining whether the wounds came from the firearms of police officers assigned to protect the mayor.
“We will subject all issued firearms to paraffin and forensic tests to determine who may have caused the other injuries,” Tuaño said.
Meanwhile, Cagayan PNP spokesperson Police Captain Shiela Joy Fronda said further investigation indicates the shooter may have fired from a mountainous area approximately 80 to 100 meters away from the barangay hall, potentially from an elevated spot 40 feet above road level.
“The shot likely came from the highest part of the mountain overlooking the crime scene,” Fronda explained in a report by Oscar Oida on “24 Oras.”
The Cagayan PNP Provincial Forensic Unit is currently processing the crime scene, while hot pursuit operations and high-risk checkpoints have been deployed in nearby towns to apprehend the suspect.
Authorities are urging the public to report any information that may aid in the identification and capture of the gunman.