68 year-old-man found dead with rope tied around the neck in Batan town

By: Joseph Rowen Dela Cruz

BATAN, Aklan – A 68 year-old-man was found dead with a rope tied around his neck at Sitio Ob-Ob Brgy. Mandong, Batan at around 10:40 evening of March 18.

Batan PNP confirmed the victim’s identity as Ricardo Gregorio, 68-year-old, a resident of the area while the assailant was identified to be Pedro “Jun-Jun” Esteves, 24, a fisherman, and a resident of Brgy. Mambuquiao, Batan.

In a report written by Mary Joy Dela Cruz of Energy FM Kalibo, an investigation conducted by PMSG Julius Bendoy of the Batan PNP revealed that both the suspect and the victim went to an occasion (death anniversary) during that day. They drank liquor along with other people but before long, only the two remained outside the house.

Gregorio was sitting on a chair while the suspect Esteves was lying on the ground when the incident happened.

It was found that before Esteves executed the crime, the victim threw a glass that hit the back of his head.

Pissed Esteves then left to get a rope from the kitchen of a certain “Nelpha”, returned, and tied the rope at Gregorio’s neck. He then pulled him off the chair he was sitting on.

The suspect further stated that he even tried to drag the victim to a nearby well and intended to drop him there.

Police found Esteves at his employer’s house where they invited him to the police station for questioning, and admitted the crime.

Meanwhile, Batan PNP conducts further investigation are regarding the crime while the suspect is presently detained at a lock-up cell for proper disposition.