A 27-year-old police officer died after his firearm allegedly accidentally discharged while he was demonstrating how to use it during a drinking session in Brgy. Caranoche, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, early Friday, Nov. 13.
The victim was a police non-commissioned officer assigned to the Regional Police Health and Administrative Service (RPHAS), the police reported.
Investigation by the Santa Catalina police showed that the incident occurred at around midnight while the officer was drinking with acquaintances outside a residence.
Police said the officer reportedly drew his 9mm firearm and demonstrated how to use it when the gun suddenly discharged, hitting him in the forehead.
A witness immediately sought assistance from the officer’s live-in partner, who was inside the residence.
The victim was rushed to Bayawan District Hospital but was declared dead by attending medical personnel.
Police received a report about the incident at around 12:30 a.m. and immediately dispatched personnel to investigate.
The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NORPPO) said further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
NORPPO also reminded police personnel and licensed firearm holders to observe firearm safety protocols and avoid unnecessarily handling or displaying firearms, particularly during gatherings involving alcohol.
The provincial police office extended its condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased officer.*
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