By CESAR JOLITO III

Police are continuing their investigation into the killing of a 38-year-old woman at Barangay Sicaba in Negros Occidental’s Cadiz City while pursuing possible angles of rape and robbery with homicide following new medico-legal findings.

The victim, identified as Jenny Mae Delano, was found dead on May 21 about 100 meters away from her residence.

Authorities said the victim was partially unclothed and sustained injuries to the face.

According to her husband, Berwin Delano, a person of interest was later surrendered to authorities by his own grandfather after barangay tanods reportedly received information that the suspect had been seen shirtless in the area shortly after the incident.

Police said the grandfather decided to turn over his grandson out of fear that neighbors might harm him amid rising tension in the community.

Initial examination earlier suggested that severe blows to the victim’s eye area may have contributed to her death.

However, Cadiz police later disclosed that medico-legal findings indicated the victim died from asphyxia due to strangulation.

Cadiz police chief, Lt. Daleen Grace Loreno, said investigators are looking into the possibility that the strap of the victim’s bag was used in the strangulation.

Authorities have yet to confirm whether the victim was sexually assaulted.

Police said no fresh sperm cells were initially found, but a vaginal swab examination has been scheduled to determine whether sexual abuse occurred.

Investigators are also verifying reports that the victim was last seen talking with an unidentified individual at a waiting shed before the crime happened.

Police are now appealing for possible witnesses to come forward to help strengthen the case and identify all circumstances surrounding the incident.

“We are encouraging anyone with information to coordinate with the police, so justice may be served for the victim,” Loreno said.

The investigation remains ongoing while charges are being prepared against the person of interest./CJ, WDJ