THE Philippine National Police announced Thursday that three of the four suspects in the fatal shooting of American marine biologist Kent Edward Carpenter have been taken into custody.
PNP Public Information Chief Police Colonel Allen Rae Co confirmed the development during a press briefing, citing a report from Police Regional Office Negros Island Region Director Brigadier General Romano Cardiño. The breakthrough comes just days after the brazen late‑night attack at Carpenter’s home in Barangay Ajong, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.
Authorities identified those arrested as alias M.O., 26, the alleged gunman; alias J.F., accused of sexually assaulting Carpenter’s live‑in partner during the incident; and alias C.D., who served as the lookout. The group forced their way into the victim’s residence around 11:30 p.m. last Sunday while the 73‑year‑old scientist was watching television. One of the intruders shot him in the head before they fled; a fourth suspect remains at large as police intensify the manhunt.
Carpenter was widely respected for his decades-long research on coral reefs and marine biodiversity, work that was cited as vital to the Philippines’ successful 2016 arbitral victory over its claims in the West Philippine Sea. Investigators continue to build the case, piece together motive, and pursue the remaining suspect, assuring the public that no effort will be spared to bring all those responsible to justice.
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