Family of five survives ambush

MANILA, Philippines–A family of five almost failed to make it home alive after unidentified men fired upon their car in Quezon City the other day.

The Dalupang family, however, survived the attempt on their lives and escaped with just grazes on their arms and legs.

The ambush happened around 12:30 a.m. Sunday, near their house in Don Antonio Heights, Barangay (village) Holy Spirit, according to the station commander of the Batasan police which is in charge of the case.

Ali Dalupang, 39, a businessman engaged in buying and selling vehicles, was driving home with his son, daughter-in-law, two-year-old grandchild and nephew when they passed by Don Carlos corner Primotivo Street. This was where two men wearing helmets and riding on a motorcycle appeared alongside their vehicle with the back rider taking out a gun.

The man repeatedly fired at the family car, according to Batasan police commander Supt. Segundo Lagundi Jr. in a report on the incident. Though wounded, Dalupang was able to shake off the motorcycle riders who later escaped.

The victims went to the hospital where they were treated for bullet grazes in the arms and legs. They were later discharged as their injuries were not serious although they were traumatized by the attack, Lagundi said in a phone interview.

Police recovered from the crime scene five empty shells for a .45-cal. handgun.

Lagundi said the suspects appeared to have waited for the family to return to their house at Don Antonio Heights.

The police commander added that probers already had suspects but declined to give further details to prevent jeopardizing follow-up operations.