KABACAN, Cotabato — A thanksgiving kanduli celebration turned into a tragic crime scene after a 13-year-old boy, identified only as “Jongjong,” was shot dead in Barangay Kayaga over the weekend.

Kabacan Police Chief Police Lieutenant Colonel April Lou Palma told Radyo BIDA that investigators are treating the case as a crime of passion. The suspect, a 29-year-old married tricycle driver, allegedly shot the victim in a fit of jealousy.

According to the initial investigation, the suspect reportedly saw the victim together with his partner near the comfort room during the celebration. Enraged by the sight, he allegedly drew his firearm and shot the boy multiple times.

Lt. Col. Palma emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing to determine the full circumstances and exact motive behind the killing.

The suspect fled the scene but was later apprehended during a Lambat Bitag Sasakyan operation, where authorities flagged down his vehicle and placed him under arrest.

Police are expected to release further updates in the coming days as they continue gathering evidence and witness statements.