By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A tricycle operator was killed after reportedly being stabbed during a dance in Barangay Tibsoc, San Enrique, Negros Occidental.

Police identified the fatality as 23-year-old Alfredo Mercado, a resident of Crossing Guimoy in the town’s Barangay Tabao.

San Enrique municipal police chief, Police Senior Inspector Rey Molas, said Mercado was attending the event during a fiesta when a rumble ensued.

Mercado allegedly hit the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Querobin Gustilo, with a bottle.

In response, Gustilo pulled out a bladed weapon and started stabbing Mercado repeatedly before fleeing.

Mercado was rushed to Valladolid District Hospital, but was declared dead on arrival by hospital staff.

Gustilo, meanwhile, is presently being hunted down by police./DGB, WDJ