ANTIPOLO CITY — A 29-year-old man was shot dead after attempting to break up a fight among teenagers in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo, on the evening of March 17, 2026, sparking calls for justice from his grieving family.

Witnesses said the altercation began as a quarrel between young couples that escalated into a brawl involving several minors. CCTV footage captured the scuffle but did not show the fatal shooting. According to a witness identified only as “May,” the victim tried to pacify the group but was caught off balance. 

“Nakita na lang namin ‘yung mga bata, nagsusuntukan. Pinagtutulungan nila ‘yung isang lalaki na siguro mga 15 to 16. Lumapit ‘yung biktima, aawat lang sana. Kaso na-outbalance siya, pagbalik niya, may biglang pumutok. So bumagsak na siya,” the witness recounted.

Police later arrested five individuals involved in the fight, including several minors and a 20-year-old man. However, investigators clarified that none of those detained was identified as the gunman. The firearm used in the crime has not been recovered, and authorities continue to investigate the incident.

The victim’s mother made an emotional appeal for accountability, urging the shooter to surrender. “Sana ‘yung bumaril sa anak ko sana mahuli na. Sana sumuko ka na kung sino ka man. Maawa ka naman sa anak ko,” she said, calling for justice for her son.

Police have yet to release further details as the investigation is ongoing. The incident has raised concerns about youth violence and the dangers faced by community members who intervene in conflicts. Local officials have pledged to assist in the probe and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

This case underscores the growing problem of armed violence involving minors and highlights the risks faced by ordinary citizens who step in to prevent fights from escalating. Authorities continue to appeal to the public for information that could help identify the shooter and bring closure to the victim’s family.