The Rizal Police Provincial Office confirmed the tragic death of 16-year-old John Francis Ompad from Rodriguez, Rizal, on August 20. A police officer mistakenly shot the Grade 9 student while attempting to target the victim’s elder brother.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Ruben Piquero reported that John Ace Ompad, the victim’s brother, was stopped by Police Corporal Arnulfo Sabillo, 37, during a mobile “Oplan Sita” operation due to a “suspicious-looking” vehicle. When questioned about the ownership documents of the motorcycle he was driving, John Ace, allegedly under the influence, sped away.
A chase ensued. As John Ace approached his house, he believed he saw Sabillo’s passenger, a civilian, reaching for something. In response, John Ace threw his helmet at Sabillo, knocking him down. Upon getting up, Sabillo fired his weapon, aiming for John Ace but tragically hitting John Francis, who had just exited their home.
John Francis was initially taken to Casimiro Ynares Memorial Hospital and subsequently transferred to East Avenue Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City, where he was pronounced dead.
Police Colonel Dominic Baccay, the Rizal Police Provincial Director, expressed his condolences, condemning the act and stating that such violence has “no place in our society.”
Following the incident, Sabillo and his civilian companion, Jeffrey Baguio, 27, were arrested. The firearm used was seized and is currently with the Rizal Provincial Forensic Unit for analysis.
Both suspects are now detained at Rodriguez, Rizal Police Station and are facing charges of attempted homicide and homicide.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are trying to establish the reason for Baguio’s presence during the operation and whether Sabillo was also intoxicated at the time.