A 70-year-old man was killed after he was stabbed by his grandson inside their home in Barangay 9-A, San Rafael, Davao City, early Sunday. The attack happened around 5 a.m. on December 1, according to a report from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).
Police identified the victim as Jose Lorejo Fortaleza. The suspect was named as Jomar Cuela, 27. Authorities said the incident came to light when Christine, 21, heard her grandfather calling for help from inside his room. She went to check and saw her brother holding a bloodied knife.
Christine immediately sought help from neighbors as the suspect attempted to flee. Residents and barangay tanod blocked his escape and restrained him until police arrived.
Responder units from Central 911 brought Fortaleza to the Southern Philippines Medical Center, but he was declared dead on arrival.
Investigators later learned that Cuela has a history of mental health issues and had been admitted several times to a mental hospital in Bajada. Police are continuing to review the circumstances leading to the stabbing.
The DCPO said the suspect is now under custody while charges are being prepared. Officials have yet to release further details on the suspect’s mental condition or possible motives, pending results of the investigation.
The case has drawn concern in the community, which was unsettled by the early morning violence and the involvement of close relatives in the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.
