WHAT started with name-calling between two classmates did not only lead to a fistfight but also ended the life of a 15-year-old boy.
Nash Tañada Empaces, a resident of Sitio Kabugnaan, Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City, died after a powerful blow to his stomach during a fistfight with his classmate, 18-year-old CJ Galicia, sent him staggering face down, causing him to fall with his head hitting the gutter.
In an interview with Superbalita Cebu on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020, Police Cpl. Marlon Fabian of the Talisay City Police Station said the rift between the two classmates stemmed from their constant bickering and ridiculing each other.
The mocking, though, did not end in the classroom as the two students took their anger against each other to social media.
Challenge accepted
Fabian said Galicia, a resident of Barangay Biasong, then jokingly challenged Empaces to a fistfight, which the latter gamely accepted.
The two agreed to a face-off in a deserted area in Barangay Dumlog, Talisay City.
Based on initial police investigation, Galicia was said to have delivered the first blow to Empaces’ stomach, which caused the latter to fall to the pavement and hit his head.
After seeing that Empaces had collapsed, Galicia allegedly threw another punch which, police said, may have caused the death of Empaces.
Empaces was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Meanwhile, Galicia reportedly tried to flee the area, but he was cornered by bystanders.
Police said Galicia may face charges of homicide for the death of his classmate.
Superbalita Cebu tried to get Galicia’s statement, but Fabian said the suspect was still being investigated by police. / RTF