On November 15, 2023, a disturbing incident occurred in Nueva Ecija when a man and a woman were fatally shot by two unidentified assailants inside a provincial bus. Police investigators are currently examining the dashcam footage from the bus to unravel details surrounding the crime.
Col. Jean Fajardo, the Philippine National Police spokesperson, highlighted the likelihood of the assailants being acquainted with the victims’ routine. The victims, a live-in couple, were targeted after waiting in Nueva Ecija and boarding the bus.
According to reports, the tragic shooting transpired as the bus passed through Barangay Minuli in Carranglan town. Two men posing as passengers walked to the front and mercilessly shot the victims six times in the head and neck before fleeing the scene.
The dashcam footage captured this harrowing incident, circulating widely on social media platforms.
The identities of the victims remain unknown. Fajardo mentioned a potential connection between the crime and a previous dispute the female victim had with her son, who is currently out on bail. However, the son denied any involvement when questioned by investigators.
In addition to examining the footage, investigators are looking into the involvement of the helper who escorted the couple to the terminal. The PNP intends to collaborate with terminal management to bolster public transportation security by deploying bus marshals and security dogs.