Gov't nurse shot dead inside Maguindanao hospital

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao – A government nurse working in a district hospital here was shot dead before dawn Thursday by a patient’s father inside the health facility. 

Maj. Reggie Abellera, the Maguindanao police spokesperson, identified the victim as Nelson Mantawil, of Barangay Dalican . 

He said Nerrisa Mantawil was hit by stray bullets, but her injuries are non-life-threatening. It remains unclear if she was related to Mantawil. 

Abellera said the suspect, Butch Manalao, also of Barangay Dalican, has a child confined at the Dinaig District Hospital. 

Citing a police report, Abellera said Manalao was looking for the physician on duty before the shooting at about 2 a.m. because his son was in pain. Since no physician was around, Mantawil talked to Manalo and a heated argument ensued. 

“It appeared there was an argument and the suspect pulled his pistol and shot Mantawil four times,” Abellera said.

“Mantawil was transferred to a hospital in Cotabato City, where he was pronounced dead on arrival,” he added. 

Abellera said the hospital security guard was taken for questioning. He said an amicable settlement is in progress between the victim’s family and that of the suspect, who remains at large. (By Edwin Fernandez, PNA)