A VILLAGE watchman was arrested after allegedly shooting a couple in Barangay Daan Banua, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental Monday, February 25.

Superintendent Jonel Guadalupe, city police chief, identified the suspect as Ernesto Loberas, 48, of the said village.

Guadalupe said Loberas, his brother a certain “Ingo,” 30, and their nephew, Ian, 30, allegedly shot James Delgado, 31, and his wife Cristy, 29, while they were on their way home on board a motorcycle.

The suspects reportedly waited for them at the roadside on their way home and blocked their way.

The victims, who sustained gunshot wounds, were rushed to a hospital.

James who was hit on his left arms and shoulder was transferred to a hospital in Bacolod City while his wife was later discharged after sustaining minor injuries on her fingers.

The suspects then fled but Loberas was arrested in pursuit operations.

Police eyed grudge as the motive of the killing since Loberas and the couple were previously involved in shooting and hacking incidents.

Frustrated murder charges will be filed against Loberas who is detained at the police station.

His brother and nephew who remain at large will also be charged for the same offense. (Christopher D. Yanson, CHMSC-Talisay intern)