An investigation is being conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) into the tragic murder of Atty. Maria Saniata Liwliwa Gonzales Alzate in Bangued, Abra, identifying several persons of interest in the process.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed this development over the weekend.

"NBI is already on the scene, and we now have suspects. We are also in contact with her husband. The NBI is leading the charge on this investigation. They've combed through all available CCTV footage. They are the first responders. We have suspects," Remulla said.

"The most effective way to resolve crimes is by prosecuting the suspects, holding them accountable. We need to apprehend and prosecute the responsible parties and inform the public who is behind these actions, " he added.

Alzate was felled by the suspects at around 4:55 p.m. on Thursday.

The assailants, who remain unidentified, ambushed her while she was inside her white Mitsubishi Mirage G4 sedan (with license plate AVA 6533), parked in front of her residence on Santiago Street, Zone 3, Bangued.

The assailants, when they pulled over near her vehicle, opened fire, discharging their weapons at least eight times.

The victim was rushed to Dr. Petronilo V. Seares Sr. Memorial Hospital after the attack but succumbed to her injuries at about 5:05 p.m.

Alzate was the spouse of Raphiel F. Alzate, the former acting presiding judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 24 in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, and RTC Branch 58 in Bucay, Abra.