By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO
CABANATUAN CITY — A teenage romance ended in tragedy when an 18-year-old student shot his 15-year-old ex-girlfriend before turning the gun on himself inside a classroom in Barangay Rizal, Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija.
Police confirmed that the suspect, alias Leo, died Friday afternoon, August 8, at around 3:30 p.m., according to Police Capt. Noime Gogotano, spokesperson for the Nueva Ecija Provincial Police Office.
The victim, Lea, 15, remains under medical observation after sustaining a gunshot wound to the neck.
The incident occurred Thursday, August 7, when Leo allegedly barged into Lea’s classroom and, in front of stunned classmates, drew a firearm and shot her. He then turned the gun on himself.
Both were rushed to the nearest hospital, but Leo was later brought home by his family, who had reportedly lost hope in his recovery.
“Inuwi na nila si Leo at nawalan na sila ng pag-asa sa kanyang kalagayan at nai-report sa PNP na namatay na rin ito hapon ng Biyernes,” Capt. Gogotano said.
According to investigators, the motive behind the shooting was jealousy.
Leo and Lea had previously been in a relationship, but frequent quarrels prompted school authorities to intervene and separate them.
After their breakup, Leo reportedly tried to speak with Lea, but she refused to engage with him.
Police continue to investigate the case, while Lea remains under close medical supervision.
