PNP files charges vs AdZU gunman's father, school security officer
The Philippine National Police has filed a criminal case against the father of the teen gunman who fatally shot a fellow student and himself using his father's firearms at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University on Aug. 18. A member of the school's security personnel has also been charged.
In a statement released Wednesday, Aug. 26, the PNP announced it had completed the investigation into the shooting and, based on its findings, has filed a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and physical injury against the gunman's father, a Bureau of Customs official, and one of the school's security officers.
On Aug. 18, a junior high school student used two firearms he took from his father's gun bag and fatally shot another student and himself, leaving one other injured.
His father was relieved of his post on the same day.
According to Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., the PNP ensured its investigation followed concrete evidence and was conducted fairly.
"We follow the evidence, respect due process, and let the proper legal process determine accountability," Nartatez said. "At the same time, we have to learn from what happened and close the gaps that may put others at risk."
A Special Investigation Task Group under Police Regional Office 9 led the investigation, which examined "witness accounts, CCTV footage, physical and digital evidence, school records, and firearm-related evidence."
Per the PNP, there was no evidence that suggested the shooting involved any group, organization, or individuals other than the gunman. Police also did not detect any school-related or personal grudge that may have led to the shooting.
However, investigators determined the teen did prior preparation and was exposed to "violent online material" ahead of the incident.
Police found lapses in the safekeeping of firearms led to their unauthorized use. There were also alleged "security deficiencies" in the school, specifically in the screening procedures at the entry and exit points.
The shooting came nearly two months after a similar incident in San Jose National High School, Tacloban, where two high school students shot through the school, killing three students. The shooters have since been detained, and the Department of Justice has issued a resolution indicting the owner of one of the firearms used.
Justice Secretary Jonvic Remulla has since urged Congress to tighten gun laws in the country.
