Updated on: November 4, 2024 6:19 pm GMT
A quiet afternoon in Mexico, Pampanga turned deadly when a couple, deeply embedded in their local online business, became victims of a shocking ambush. The tragic event occurred on Friday, October 4, when Arvin Dayrit Lulu and Lerma Waje Lulu were mercilessly shot by two motorcycle-riding assailants as they traveled on a street known for its residential homes.
The Fatal Incident
According to local authorities, the ambush unfolded around 4:20 PM on Paroba Street in Barangay Santo Rosario. The couple, who lived in Mabalacat, was in their black Hilux pick-up truck, accompanied by their 6-year-old son and a cousin of Lerma when tragedy struck. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the assailants had been trailing the couple’s vehicle before carrying out the attack.
- The suspects approached the couple’s pick-up and opened fire.
- Both Arvin and Lerma sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Police Corporal Jonathan Roy Ilagan stated that the investigation is currently ongoing and declined to provide further information. “The instruction to me was to investigate first since [the case] is still ongoing. Apologies, but we cannot provide any more details,” he told Rappler in a statement.
Despite the swift response from emergency responders, Arvin and Lerma were declared dead upon arrival at the Mexico community hospital in Barangay San Carlos.
Search for Truth and Justice
Local police wasted no time in launching a flash alarm and initiating dragnet operations across nearby municipalities after the shooting. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the scene to help identify the suspects.
“The couple had just finished meeting a client when the fatal shooting occurred,” said Alicia Dayrit Lulu, the victim’s mother. She shared how her son and daughter-in-law were on their way home when they were ambushed.
P/Lt. Col. Pearl Joy Gollayan, chief of the Mexico Municipal Police Station, provided further insight. “We saw they’re already tailing the victims’ vehicle,” she explained. Thankfully, the couple’s son and cousin were unharmed during the attack.
Authorities are considering possible motives behind the shooting, focusing on the couple’s business dealings. “We are not dealing with a single motive; we are still looking at what the concrete motive is,” Gollayan emphasized.
Community Response
The local community is grieving the loss of Arvin and Lerma, and their families are calling for swift justice. In an effort to capture the suspects, Mabalacat City Mayor Crisostomo Garbo has announced a reward of P100,000 for any information leading to their arrest.
“Such acts of violence are unacceptable, and we must do everything possible to ensure the safety of our citizens,” Mayor Garbo expressed.
The investigation also extends to the couple’s recent business transactions, as police explore the identity of their client from that day. The authorities have several persons of interest and are actively pursuing leads related to the ambush.
Ongoing Investigation
As investigators delve deeper into this tragic incident, the community is left seeking answers. The involvement of the Angeles Forensic Unit to process the crime scene signals the seriousness of the probe.
Authorities are also engaging with the local populace, asking for any eyewitness accounts or leads that could assist in identifying the gunmen. “Every detail can be crucial in piecing together what happened that day,” Gollayan stated.
Community members are urged to stay vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. The investigation remains active, and the police are commended for their efforts in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
A Call for Safety
As the investigation unfolds, there is a palpable fear among residents. Personal safety in the area has become a topic of concern, highlighting the need for improved security measures in neighborhoods.
In light of the violence experienced by the Lulus, many community members are calling for heightened police presence and community outreach programs focused on violence prevention. Safety forums may become part of the local agenda as the impact of this incident resonates throughout the community.
Conclusion
The heartbreaking losses of Arvin Dayrit Lulu and Lerma Waje Lulu have profoundly impacted the Pampanga community, sparking demands for justice and enhanced safety measures. As the investigation unfolds, the community comes together in shared sorrow and a strong desire for answers. This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the urgent need for justice in our neighborhoods. In the wake of this tragedy, families and friends are left to cope with an immense loss while yearning for closure. As the situation evolves, it’s important to stay informed through local news and maintain contact with law enforcement for updates on the investigation and community safety guidance.
