GENERAL SANTOS CITY — A 12-year-old girl was killed in General Santos City after being caught in the crossfire during a police pursuit of a suspect who allegedly fired a gun. Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine whether the fatal shot came from the suspect or responding officers.

Police confirmed that a 12-year-old girl died alongside a suspected gunman during a shootout in Barangay Labangal. The incident occurred Saturday when officers chased a man accused of discharging a firearm, leading to an exchange of gunfire that tragically claimed the child’s life.

Col. Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., director of the General Santos City Police Office, said investigators have been ordered to secure sworn statements and forensic evidence to establish the sequence of events. “We have directed our chief investigator to immediately obtain affidavits from our witnesses,” Olaivar stated, noting that ballistic analysis will be crucial in determining responsibility.

Preliminary findings suggest the fatal shot may have come from the suspect during the firefight, but police stressed that all possibilities remain under review. Witness accounts will be compared against physical and ballistic evidence to ensure transparency in the investigation.

The incident has sparked outrage and grief in the community, with residents demanding accountability and stricter protocols to prevent civilians from being harmed during police operations. Advocacy groups have also called for better training and oversight to minimize risks in high-stakes encounters.

Authorities assured the public that the investigation will be thorough, with results to be made available once forensic examinations are complete. The case underscores the dangers of armed confrontations in populated areas and the urgent need for measures that prioritize civilian safety.

This tragedy has reignited debates over police conduct and the balance between law enforcement duties and protecting innocent lives, highlighting the importance of accountability in maintaining public trust.