AN Investigation was ordered to look into the death of a delivery rider in Tondo, Manila that involved a police officer
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Guillermo Eleazar issued the order based on the complaint lodged by the relatives of Jason Capistrano, who died after he was hit by a bullet that came from the service firearm of Police Corporal Oliver Ferrer, who is assigned at the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 1.
“I have already asked the Director, MPD about this case and the initial investigation revealed that the policeman and the victim are friends and it was a case of irresponsible gun ownership. The policeman was already disarmed, detained, and a case of homicide was already referred to the Prosecutor’s Office aside from the administrative charges that would be filed against him,” PGen. Eleazar said.
Based on the initial report, PCpl. Ferrer went to Barangay 183, Zone 16 to visit chairman Joseph Lipasana in Gagalangin. While they were waiting outside the barangay hall, Ferrer allegedly toyed with his firearm in front of Capistrano. The gun went off and hit Capistrano.
Capistrano was rushed to the Chinese General Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
MPD chief Police BGen. Leo Francisco said Ferrer had surrendered and he was already disarmed.
PGen Eleazar expressed deep sympathy to the family of the victim and he assured them that the incident would be thoroughly probed.
“I understand the hurt and the anger being felt by the family of Jason. I would like to personally extend my regrets and condolences to them. I will make sure that the cop involved will answer to the law,” said PGen Eleazar.
On Saturday, September 18, Eleazar ordered the regular conduct of gun safety and marksmanship training for all PNP uniformed personnel, especially those assigned on the ground.
He explained that as the PNP is promoting and requiring responsible gun ownership for civilians who want to own firearms, the standard on gun safety and shooting skills must be high for police personnel.
“I have already issued a directive for the regular conduct of gun safety and marksmanship training purposely to avoid cases like this. I hope this will serve a lesson to those who own firearms, especially among the police, that guns are not toys, and having and owning a gun is not something that they should brag about,” said PGen Eleazar.