Rape suspect dies after epilepsy attack during inquest

MANILA, Philippines—A suspect in the rape of a 6-year-old girl in Sta. Ana, Manila, died after suffering an epilepsy attack while undergoing inquest proceedings on Sunday afternoon.

Jeepney washer Gerardo Argota, Jr., 45, accused of violating RA 8353, was declared dead on arrival at the Philippine General Hospital, around 3 p.m.

According to the report of Senior Insp. Robert Casimiro Domingo, station commander of the Manila Police District-Sta Ana Police station, Barangay Punta police community officers brought Argota to the Manila City Hall around 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

While being presented to Duty Fiscal Ma. Josefina Concepcion, the suspect started shaking uncontrollably. Concepcion then ordered the policemen to rush Argota to the nearest hospital. Dr. Marjorie Launico of the emergency room of the PGH-trauma division pronounced him dead around 3:05 p.m..

Relatives of Argota, who were immediately informed about his death, told the police that Argota suffered from an epilepsy attack.

Argota was arrested at around 5 p.m. Saturday, by Barangay 902 councilor Romeo Concepcion after he discovered Argota “raping” a 6-year-old girl in the community.

The victim, assisted by her mother, told Sta. Ana Police investigators that she was dragged by Argota from the dike side area up to the rooftop of the Tenement building at F. Manalo St., Punta in Sta Ana, Manila, and then raped her.

The Sta Ana Police station already requested for an autopsy report, which was extended to Argota’s family, police said. SFM