Rape suspect dead in gunfight with police in Zambales

SAN ANTONIO, Zambales—A man suspected of raping a nine-year-old girl was killed after he allegedly clashed with policemen in the town of Palauig on Sunday (Nov. 15).

Police said the slain suspect, Christopher Abella, 38, an ex-convict, allegedly raped and tried to kill his victim last Nov. 11.

Police said the assault took place around 9 p.m., the last time the girl was seen with Abella.

The victim was reported missing and was later found naked and unconscious on a vacant lot around 200 meters from where she lived.

Col. Ponce Rogelio Penoñes Jr., Zambales police director, said Abella was tracked down and located in his house after a four-day manhunt operation.

But instead of surrendering, the suspect drew a firearm and shot at the policemen who were serving a warrant of arrest. The suspect was killed instantly when the policemen fired back.

The girl, who suffered severe bruises, remained confined in a hospital for treatment.

Edited by TSB