Three people were killed and one injured after a man, allegedly under the influence of illegal drugs, opened fire indiscriminately in Barangay Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Thursday night, January 17, 2025.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old ex-convict “Jay-ar,” was apprehended by Lapu-Lapu City Police and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) operatives shortly after the incident. He had a prior conviction for drug-related offenses, police revealed.
Authorities reported that the suspect fired at individuals he encountered on the street, resulting in the deaths of a 26-year-old photographer, a female lending officer, and a man identified as Ngangang Aying. A fourth victim, 30-year-old construction worker “Tonyo,” sustained injuries and was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting spree. The suspect is currently detained at the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office detention facility and faces multiple charges, including murder and frustrated homicide.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over drug-related violence in Cebu, reigniting calls for stricter measures to curb illegal drug use and prevent crimes linked to substance abuse.
