By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

An 11-year-old boy was killed after he was allegedly strangled by his cousin last Tuesday at Hacienda Esperanza in Bago City’s Barangay Mailum. Police have requested not to identify the victim and the suspect, who they believe is suffering from mental illness.
Based on an investigation carried out by Bago City police, the victim was brought to the suspect’s home unconscious. When the suspect was questioned by his brother, he claimed the victim was playing on a hammock and accidentally choked himself.
The victim was immediately rushed to the Ma-ao Health Center, where he was declared deadon arrival by medical staff.
When authorities examined the remains and interviewed the suspect, they found the statements were inconsistent and the marks on the victim’s neck showed the victim was strangled.
Police later arrested the suspect, who continues to deny the allegations.
Law enforcement officials also interviewed neighbors and discovered the suspect’s behavior began to change a few weeks ago, pointing out, he had allegedly chased his mother with a bladed weapon.
The suspect faces homicide charges and is detained at the Bago City Police Station./DGB, WDJ