A police officer was killed, and three civilians were injured in a shooting late Saturday night during a carnival in Barangay Poblacion 1, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.
Staff Master Sgt. Louie Noble, a police intelligence officer, was conducting surveillance at the fairground with civilian agents when two armed men approached and opened fire. Noble was hit in the head and body, leading to his instant death.
Three bystanders were caught in the crossfire: Cresensiano Sia, 33, sustained a leg wound; Ronaldo Fernando, 32, was shot in the hand; and Christian Pedro, 24, suffered a back injury. All three victims were taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
The Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) recovered ten spent shells from .45 and .40 caliber firearms at the site. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities are working to identify and locate the suspects, who fled after the attack.
Officials are considering the possibility that the incident was related to Noble’s work, as he was performing surveillance duties when the shooting occurred.
The midnight attack has left the community shaken, especially since the incident happened in a crowded public space meant for entertainment and leisure.
Police are urging residents with any information about the suspects or their whereabouts to report immediately. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the motive behind the shooting.
