Businessman Fatally Shot in Zamboanga Drive-By Attack; Wife Escapes Unharmed
In a tragic incident on March 18, 2026, a businessman was killed in a drive-by shooting along the Maria Clara Lorenzo Lobregat Highway in Manicahan village, Zamboanga City. The victim, identified as Joel Evangelista, a resident of Lower Tungawan village in Zamboanga Sibugay, succumbed to his injuries after being repeatedly shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen. His wife, who was with him at the time, survived the attack unscathed but was left traumatized by the violent event.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred around 1:50 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, on a highway located 23 kilometers east of Zamboanga City. According to police reports, the Evangelista couple was traveling home to Tungawan in a pick-up truck when two men riding tandem on a motorcycle pulled alongside their vehicle. One of the assailants opened fire, targeting Joel Evangelista multiple times. The suspects immediately fled the scene after the attack, speeding away on their motorcycle.
Joel Evangelista was rushed to a nearby hospital by responding paramedics but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician. Manicahan Village Chairperson Erolyn Barredo confirmed over the radio that Evangelista was already unresponsive when he arrived at the medical facility. His wife, though physically unharmed, is receiving support as she copes with the shock and trauma of witnessing the fatal shooting.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Local authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the drive-by shooting to determine the motive behind the attack and identify the gunmen involved. The police are examining evidence from the scene and gathering witness statements to piece together the events leading up to the incident. As of now, no suspects have been apprehended, and the investigation continues to uncover possible reasons for the targeted violence.
This incident highlights ongoing security concerns in the region, with drive-by shootings posing a significant threat to public safety. The community of Manicahan village and surrounding areas in Zamboanga City are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
