Slug still in victim’s head following stray New Year’s incident in Panabo City

DAVAO CITY —– The autopsy of a deceased student, identified as Jade Sumambot, has been authorized by her mother to determine the caliber of the bullet that struck his forehead and caused his death.

Panabo City Police Chief LtCol. Jesser Maghirang explained to Newsline Philippines that the recovery of the slug is crucial to identifying the type of firearm used. “We need to remove the bullet from the victim’s head to ascertain the gun’s caliber,” he said.

The projectile, which penetrated her forehead and reached his brain, inflicted fatal injuries. LtCol. Maghirang clarified that this one entered the victim directly, unlike bullets that ricochet off surfaces.

According to the investigation, the incident occurred at the gate of the victim’s residence in Northern Plains Subdivision, Barangay New Visayas, Panabo City. Sumambot, along with his companions, was outside watching fireworks to celebrate the New Year when he noticed blood on his head. Upon closer inspection, they discovered a wound and rushed her to a hospital in Panabo City before transferring her to the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum. Doctors later confirmed the presence of a bullet in his head.

The bullet is believed to have originated from a nearby barangay, as several communities and establishments, including Barangay Gredu, Barangay Southern Davao, Barangay Datu Abdul, and Little Panay surround Northern Plains Subdivision. The area is also close to Panabo City National High School.

Maghirang added that determining the origin of the shot is complex due to the geography of the surrounding areas. Investigators are exploring all angles, including the possibility that the shot came from celebratory gunfire in a neighboring barangay.

The victim succumbed to her injuries on January 2 at approximately 2:00 p.m. His remains are currently being brought back to her hometown in Mati City.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident, urging residents to provide any information that could aid in identifying the perpetrator. This tragic incident highlights the dangers of illegal gun use during celebrations, and police have reiterated the need for stricter compliance with firearm regulations.