A violent altercation on Christmas Eve in San Fernando City left a man wounded from a gunshot, with police now launching a manhunt for the suspect.
Christmas Eve Violence Erupts in Barangay Sangat
The incident occurred in the vicinity of Sta. Felomina, Barangay Sangat, San Fernando City on December 24, 2025. The victim has been identified as 52-year-old Manuel Jimenez, a local resident who works as an air conditioning installer.
According to initial reports received by authorities from a concerned citizen, the shooting was preceded by a heated argument between Jimenez and another individual. The verbal clash quickly escalated into a physical confrontation.
Fistfight Precedes Shooting
Manuel Jimenez stated that he and the suspect were involved in a dispute that led to a fistfight. During the brawl, Jimenez managed to overpower his opponent.
Defeated in the hand-to-hand fight, the suspect, identified as 34-year-old Jerel Jay Mahinay, temporarily left the scene on a motorcycle. Mahinay is described as unemployed, with a live-in partner, and is also a resident of the same barangay.
However, in a dangerous turn of events, Mahinay returned to the location. Upon his return, he allegedly drew a firearm and shot Jimenez, inflicting a gunshot wound on the victim's left arm.
Police Launch Manhunt for Suspect
After the shooting, the suspect fled the area promptly. Police officers, who rushed to the scene after receiving the report, are now actively tracking down Jerel Jay Mahinay.
The authorities are preparing to file a case of attempted homicide against the suspect once he is apprehended. The investigation remains ongoing as they follow leads on his current whereabouts.
The victim, Manuel Jimenez, received medical attention for his non-life-threatening injury. The community of Barangay Sangat was shaken by the violent event, which cast a shadow over the Christmas celebrations.
