Suspect in Bulacan massacre dead after alleged suicide

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MANILA, Philippines — One of the suspects behind the killing of a family in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan, has died after an alleged suicide inside the toilet of San Jose Del Monte police station.

Bulacan Provincial Police Office reported that a fellow detainee discovered Joselito Cortez’s body hanging at the comfort room.

The detainee then reported the incident to the duty jail guards.

Guards untied Cortez and rushed him to the district hospital but was later pronounced dead by the attending physicians.

The suspect’s cadaver will be subjected for autopsy to determine if there was a foul play in the incident.

Cortez and Wilson Nosal were tagged as perpetrators in the murder of Jaymee Casabuena Biding, a 28-year-old single mother, and her two eight- and four-year-old sons inside their home in Barangay (village) Kaypian, Bulacan last April 3.

The suspects were captured in a joint operation of police and National Bureau of Investigation. /jpv

READ: Police declare Bulacan massacre solved; arrest 2 suspects

The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public, especially those who may have mental health issues, that they can contact the DOH’s 24/7 Hopeline to either help them unburden their emotional baggage or to seek professional help. Hopeline can be reached via hotlines 804-HOPE (4673); 0917-558-HOPE (4673); or 2919 (toll-free number for Globe and TM subscribers).