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Suspected killers in Dela Cruz slay charged
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Posted on May 11 1999
The two suspected gunmen in the fatal shooting of Joaquin Dela Cruz in San Vicente have been charged with first degree murder, voluntary manslaughter and kidnapping.
Eleven other counts were filed against Nestor and George Taitano, whom the authorities identified as responsible for the gun slaying of Dela Cruz on May 4 in San Vicente, where he was found dead sprawled on a dirt road leading to Standford Hotel.
Based on court documents submitted by the Attorney General’s Office, the murder took place while Dela Cruz and the suspects were in the heat of an argument caused by reasonable provocation.
Earlier accounts said the victim was reportedly looking for Lydia Sanchez and had an argument with both suspects before he was gunned down.
Along with major offenses, the Taitanos are also facing charges of kidnapping and attempted first degree murder.
The two men took away Sanchez by force and threatened to kill her.
Initial investigation said that prior to the shooting incident, Sanchez and Dela Cruz were visiting a friend when the two suspects arrived on the scene and took Sanchez with them before fleeing to San Vicente.
She was reportedly punched and kicked by the two men, and overheard them planning to kill her. She was able to escape and seek help.
A separate case was also filed against Nestor Taitano for various criminal counts, including unauthorized carrying of firearm and mischief.
He figured in another incident that took place last April 24 when he was named as the person responsible for breaking the windshield and damaging the car owned by Juan Aquino.
Taitano was carrying a gun at that time and tried to use it to commit a crime.
