POLICE Regional Office 2 (PRO2) confirmed on Monday that four people were killed and four others injured in a shooting incident that took place during a town fiesta celebration in Santo Tomas, Isabela, the night before.
The attack happened around 7:50 p.m. in Barangay San Rafael Abajo, where residents and guests had gathered for festivities, turning a joyous occasion into a scene of violence and panic. Authorities said unidentified suspects suddenly opened fire on the group before fleeing, leaving the community in shock and prompting a massive manhunt operation.
Among those who lost their lives were Barangay Colonguan Chairman Jimmy Paeste Jr. and Police Corporal Frederick Bautista, who were at the event when the shooting occurred. The other fatalities were identified only by their aliases, “Marlo” and “Den,” pending complete documentation and formal identification. Those wounded in the attack included another police officer and a 17‑year‑old girl, who were immediately brought to nearby medical facilities for treatment; their current conditions have not been fully disclosed as of this report.
Initial findings from the crime scene showed that the assailants used high‑powered firearms during the attack. Investigators recovered five fired cartridge cases of 5.56mm caliber and two of .45 caliber, indicating that multiple weapons were discharged. Witness accounts and initial reports suggest that the perpetrators escaped using a white van and two motorcycles as getaway vehicles, allowing them to flee quickly from the area and evade immediate capture. Police have yet to establish a clear motive or identify the individuals behind the shooting.
PRO2 chief Police Brigadier General Mariano Rodriguez has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Task Group to lead the case buildup and coordinate all efforts to track down and arrest those responsible.
“I have directed the Isabela Police Provincial Office and all concerned units to conduct a thorough investigation to immediately identify and arrest those responsible,” Rodriguez stated, adding that operations will continue without let‑up until the perpetrators are held accountable. Authorities have also appealed to the public to remain calm, cooperate with investigators, and share any information that could help solve the crime and bring justice to the victims and their families.
