Four people, including a barangay chairman and a police officer, were killed while several others were wounded after unidentified armed men opened fire during a fiesta celebration in Barangay San Rafael Abajo, Sto. Tomas, Isabela, on Sunday evening, May 24.

Authorities reported that the shooting occurred at around 7:50 p.m. while the victims were gathered at a table when the assailants suddenly unleashed gunfire.

Among those killed on the spot were Barangay Colonguan Chairman Jimmy Paeste Jr., Police Corporal Frederick Bautista of the Sto. Tomas Municipal Police Station, an 18-year-old identified by the alias “Marlo,” and a 48-year-old known as “Den.”

Four others were rushed to the Milagros Alfaro District Hospital after sustaining injuries, including another police officer and a 17-year-old girl, according to initial reports forwarded to Camp Crame.

Investigators from the Police Regional Office 2 said the suspects may have fled using a white van and two motorcycles after the attack.

Crime scene investigators recovered multiple spent shell casings, including five from a 5.56mm rifle and two from a .45-caliber firearm.

The Police Regional Office 2 has ordered the creation of a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to lead the probe. Authorities are also looking into a possible link between the attack and a recent hot pursuit operation targeting a criminal group allegedly involved in illegal drugs in the area.

Sto. Tomas Mayor Leandro Antonio Talaue condemned the attack and assured assistance and support for the families of the victims.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to identify the suspects and determine the motive behind the deadly shooting.