• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The killing of a couple and their son on May 1 in Sitio Guinam-an, Barangay Buenavista, Murcia, was considered by the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office as an ‘isolated case’ and has been assessed as having nothing to do with forthcoming May 12 elections.
P/Col. Rainier de Chavez, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, also strongly condemned the violent incident.
“We are condemning this brutal and senseless act. Let me make it clear – this is an isolated case. It will not affect the ongoing election period. The safety and security of our communities remain our top priority, especially during this critical time,” said De Chavez in a statement.
The Murcia police have yet to establish a major breakthrough in their investigations into the suspects behind the shooting to death of couple Neldi Celayes, 59; his wife, Josephine, 60; and their 33-year-old son, Jovie.
All the victims succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, according to the police.
Recovered from the scene of the incidents were three fired cartridges and ammunition for a caliber .45 pistol, an empty shell and a slug of a caliber .357 revolver.
Police probers are looking at a land conflict as among the possible motives behind the killing of three Celayes family members.
De Chavez said they already have some persons of interest, based on the testimonies of some members of the family.
He assured the public that additional police resources and investigative support have been mobilized to assist Murcia Police Station, to swiftly resolve the case and bring justice to the victims.
De Chavez also called on the public to remain calm and cooperative, and to immediately report any information that may assist authorities in their investigations into the shooting incident.*
