By Jennifer P. Rendon
A fruit vendor was arrested after allegedly shooting his neighbor on the evening of Jan. 30 in Molo, Iloilo.
The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Chris Castro, expressed remorse but claimed his actions were in defense of his mother.
Police reports indicated that 51-year-old Federico Flores was on his way home in Zone 3, Barangay San Juan, Molo, at around 7:45 p.m. when Castro intercepted him.
The report stated that “with evident premeditation, Castro shot the victim twice,” hitting Flores in the lower left armpit and the lower left portion of his chest.
Despite his injuries, Flores managed to wrestle for control of the firearm, but Castro ultimately overpowered him.
The wounded victim ran for safety and sought help from relatives who were nearby. He was later brought to the Western Visayas Medical Center for treatment.
Castro fled the scene but voluntarily surrendered at around 9:50 p.m. the same evening.
According to Castro, he harbored no prior grudge against Flores.
However, the incident stemmed from an alleged altercation the day before when Flores reportedly sideswiped Castro’s mother with his bicycle.
Instead of apologizing, Flores allegedly hurled expletives at her, which Castro said prompted his actions.
Details surrounding the actual shooting incident were not elaborated.
Flores is currently detained at the lock-up cell of Iloilo City Police Station 4 while authorities prepare to file charges against him.
