Customs Commissioner Fires Father of Zamboanga School Shooting Suspect as Customs Police Chief
The father of Zamboanga school shooting suspect has been relieved from his position as a Customs police chief.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno announced that the father of the student involved in the shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School has been relieved from his position as a Customs police chief in Zamboanga.
The shooting happened on Tuesday morning, August 18, inside the school campus in Zamboanga City. Initial reports identified the suspect as a male junior high school student. Authorities said he brought two firearms to the campus and allegedly opened fire before taking his own life.
Two people were confirmed dead, including the student suspected of carrying out the shooting and another student. Some reports initially mentioned more casualties, but authorities and the school later confirmed two fatalities.
Initial reports also said that other people were injured, although officials continued to verify the details as the investigation moved forward.
The incident caused panic among students, teachers, parents, and school personnel. Hundreds of students were evacuated from the area while police and security personnel secured the campus. Authorities later said that the situation was under control.
The suspect was also reported to have livestreamed parts of the incident on social media. Officials have urged the public not to share unverified information, photos, or videos related to the shooting, as these could cause further fear and interfere with the investigation.
Following the tragedy, the Department of Education said it was coordinating with mental health partners to provide psychological first aid and other support to students and individuals affected by the incident.
Ateneo de Zamboanga University also cancelled classes and announced a day of mourning and prayer for the school community.
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