A police officer is in custody after allegedly killing three fellow officers and a civilian woman in back-to-back shootings last Friday night in Negros Oriental, authorities said.

In line with this, Mayor Jose A. Abiera issued a statement, mourning the deaths of Sibulan police officer-in-charge Capt. Edrohil Cimafranca, Staff Sgt. Tristan Chua, Pat. Rey Albert Temblor and civilian Sheila Mae Dionanao.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic and senseless murder of our police officers and a civilian,” Abiera said. “No words can fully ease the pain of such a loss, but my thoughts are with you during this time of profound grief.”

The suspect, identified by Negros Oriental Police spokesperson Capt. Stephen Polinar as Staff Sgt. Bonifacio Saycon, surrendered to authorities later that evening.

According to initial investigations, the violence began at a bar in Barangay Tubtobon, where Saycon allegedly shot Dionanao. The three police officers, who were reportedly at the bar with Saycon, disarmed and arrested him.

The second shooting occurred while the officers were transporting Saycon to the police station. Polinar said Saycon allegedly produced a second, concealed firearm while inside the vehicle, shot all three officers, and fled.

Saycon turned himself in at the Tanjay City Police Station at approximately 10:45 p.m. Friday, accompanied by his family, according to Tanjay City Police chief Lt. Col. Romeo Cubo.

Polinar noted that while witnesses have come forward regarding the initial shooting at the bar, determining the exact details of the second shooting will be difficult.

“What transpired inside the car would be a challenge to investigators, as only Saycon will be the primary source of information,” Polinar said.

Saycon remains in custody and is scheduled for drug and paraffin testing. A motive for the killings has not yet been established.