ARAYAT -- A couple from nearby Mexico town were shot dead by still unidentified assailants while on their way home from selling goods in Isabela province recently.

The victims identified as Rodelio Cabanlig, 39, and Analiza Bumatay, 33, were declared dead-on-the spot after sustaining gunshots on their heads in a crime allegedly orchestrated by motorcycle riding men in Barangay Telapayong here.

According to witness Warren Isip, who posted the incident to his Facebook account, the couple makes a living by travelling from one place to another to sell popcorn and “palamig” during fiestas.

“Pauwi na sila galing Isabela na nagbyabyahe lang nang naka-tricycle kasama ang kanilang tindero na nakaligtas at nakasaksi sa kung paano binaril ang mag-asawa,” he said.

The police said the suspects did not get anything from the victims and the P35,000 they reportedly earned from selling goods were also recovered.

The police added they still do not dismiss robbery or hold-up as motive in the heinous crime.

Meanwhile, a witness who was identified as “Kalbo,” who ran away and hid in a farmland, was taken in to the Arayat police station for questioning and possible identification of the suspects.