Barangay worker shot dead in Pagadian City

PAGADIAN CITY—A barangay street sweeper, who sidelined as a massage therapist, was shot dead just outside the Barangay Hall of San Jose here around 6 p.m. Thursday, the police said.

Supt. Benito Ricopuerto, Pagadian police chief, on Friday identified the victim as 55-year-old Mercy Epsima.

Ricopuerto said based on investigation, Epsima was on her way home after massaging San Jose village chief Allan Sumampong when a lone gunman approached her and fired at her several times.

Epsima, who was hit twice on the chest, was immediately rushed by villagers to the Hofileña Hospital but was declared dead upon arrival by the attending physician.

The lone gunman fled on a motorcycle parked near the village hall.

Ricopuerto said police investigators recovered seven empty shells from a .45 caliber pistol and the victim’s shoes from the crime scene.

An investigation as to the identity and motive of the gunman was still being conducted, according to Ricopuerto.