3 alleged car thieves slain in shootout with Benguet cops

BAGUIO CITY––Three suspected car thieves were killed during a shootout Friday with police in La Trinidad, Benguet, authorities said.

Investigators said a clash ensued around 12:30 a.m. after the suspects fired shots at the responding policemen in a gasoline station in Barangay Tomay.

Intelligence operatives and mobile patrol of La Trinidad Municipal Police Station responded to a tip about three suspicious armed men on board a red car.

Upon verification, the car’s plate number belonged to another vehicle, police said.

Investigators said the still-unidentified suspects sped off but were cornered at a checkpoint along the Lamut-Shilan Road when their car crashed at the roadside.

Another gunfight broke out that resulted in the instant death of the two suspects. Their companion died while being treated in a hospital. INQ

lzb