Two minors have been arrested in connection with the gruesome murder of a 21-year-old college student, Sophia Maria Coquilla, who was found dead with 38 stab wounds inside her home in Barangay La Filipina, Tagum City, Davao del Norte on July 9.
Police said Coquilla’s body was discovered by her parents early morning, still warm, suggesting the crime occurred around 5 a.m. Her gadgets and personal belongings were missing, indicating a robbery.
P/Lt. Col. Frederick Deles, acting Tagum City police chief, confirmed the arrest of a 14-year-old and a 17-year-old boy, both from Maragusan, Davao de Oro. The suspects were caught trying to flee the boarding house and were identified through their distinct red hair seen in CCTV footage.
Recovered from the suspects were Coquilla’s stolen Apple laptop, iPad, broken iPhone, two watches, and two knives—one of which still had traces of blood believed to have been used in the attack.
During questioning, the 17-year-old suspect claimed he stabbed the victim to support his pregnant partner. Deles added the teenager was a repeat offender and had been involved in thefts before.
Both minors are now under the custody of the Women and Children Protection Desk. Police are hunting down two other suspects, including one identified only as “alias Roy,” believed to have led the brutal attack.
Authorities urge anyone with information to help locate the remaining suspects as the investigation continues.
