Businessman shoots security guard dead over road altercation in Negros – Manila Bulletin

BACOLOD CITY — A security guard shot dead by a businessman after a street altercation on Vilena Street in Barangay Zone 2, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental, on Thursday, October 27.

The victim has been identified as Arnold Verocula, age 57, of Barangay Zone 2.

Cádiz Police Chief Lieutenant Colonel Gil John Despi said the victim, who was run over by a sport utility vehicle driven by Mark Besa, 40, also in Barangay Zone 2, was riding a bicycle on his way home.

Despi said a heated argument ensued when the victim reportedly confronted Betha about it.

Despi said that Besa was reportedly under the influence of alcohol when he got into an altercation with Verocula.

However, when the victim allegedly cursed Betha, Betha became angry and the suspect shot the victim and punched him in the right armpit.

The victim was declared dead on arrival at the hospital and Betha fled.

However, Betha was later arrested in a chase operation in Barangay 1-A, the town of Manapura, after his car was found.

Police recovered a 45-caliber pistol, magazines, four rounds of live ammunition, and empty shells from the Besa.

Based on closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, Despi said the victim and suspect actually had an altercation before the shooting.

Murder charges are set against Betha, who has yet to discuss the case with the police.