Jun Torres

Bgy chief kills brod in duel

Talavera – Two brothers became the modern-day version of the biblical Abel and Cain when they shot each other during a birthday bash in a remote village here Monday evening.

The siblings’ long-standing feud ended with ex-barangay captain Fortunato Rayo, 55, allegedly shot dead by his younger brother, incumbent Barangay Chairman Florencio Rayo, of Kinalanguyan.

Killed in a crossfire was Glaycee Ann Abenojar, 4, of Barangay Sibol.

The bloody shootout occurred at 6:30 p.m. during the 40th birthday celebration of Alfredo Hernal, of Barangay Sibol.

Reports said the rift between the two Rayos worsened when they battled one-on-one during last year’s barangay polls, with the younger Rayo emerging victorious.

Town police chief Supt. Arnel V. Santiago said the elder Rayo died on the spot while his brother is listed in critical condition at the Nueva Ecija Doctor’s Hospital in Cabanatuan City.

Investigators said the elder Rayo was seated and talking with Marilyn Agapinan-Antonio, Fortunata Simon-Hernal, Divina Simon-Abenojar, and her daughter Glaycee Ann when his brother arrived.

Hernal then talked to the younger Rayo and left to buy another bottle of wine.

At this juncture, the barangay official walked closer to his elder brother, who was drinking with friends, and momentarily exchanged mean glances with him.

Both pulled out their handguns and started shooting at each other.

Prior to that, probers said the police received a call from the barangay captain saying his elder brother was creating trouble in the place.

Recovered at the scene were two M-16 Armalite rifles, two Armscor .45 pistols, 14 shells for .45, nine shells for 5.56, a metal jacket for .45 and two spare magazines for .45 and M-16 rifle.

Homicide and parricide charges have been filed against the barangay official.