Editorial: Terrible Mix-Up

WHEN news that a “suspect” in the death of Dannielle “Danni” Conde had surrendered, her family, friends and sympathizers heaved a huge sigh of relief, congratulating the police and whoever was responsible for finally “closing” the case.

However, police discovered yet another twist to the case. And this is where facts have become rather… iffy.

When Rolando Estrada surrendered to the police, media and the police were quick to tag him as the “suspect” behind Danni’s death. It was a normal reaction, we think, in light of the call for justice for the untimely death of the 17-year-old, pretty lass from Tarlac.

Everyone felt pressured and wanted to close the case so bad, that when Estrada surfaced, they saw that chance and grabbed it. It was quite convenient, wasn’t it, that the man the police are looking for in connection to the case, came to their doorsteps?

Now, it is quite clear that Estrada voluntarily went to the authorities to clear his name, with the sketch the police released to the media having close resemblance to him. Yes, we have to agree that the composite sketch does look a bit like him.

See? Even we were fooled. Iffy, indeed.

So, yes, he has priors, but that doesn’t mean he killed Danni, does it? Since he denied killing the girl, and that investigations have proven that Estrada didn’t have anything to do with the crime, the police went on with their investigation.

And you guessed it right, they finally nailed the man who did the deed.

A witness who identified Estrada as the man who came running from Danni’s apartment last March 2 actually recanted his statement. Even the witness wasn’t that sure about Estrada’s involvement to begin with, so… iffy.

Now, the witness is quite sure that the new suspect arrested by the police – a man by the name of Vladmir Dianzon – is the one.

Apology

A post on a Facebook page dedicated to Danni expressed apologies to Estrada.

“This morning (Sunday), Roland was released… proven (sic) beyond allegation that he is innocent and not involved in this crime. Our apology (sic); you are also a big help to trace and lead the suspect. God bless you Roland,” the post states.

Indeed, our apologies Roland, for the terrible mix-up. You were the suspect of convenience, and we were all wrong to have insinuated that you took Danni’s life. Now that the real suspect is in the hands of the police, we are hoping that you could get back to your life, without any hitches.-- Sun.Star Pampanga