Motorcycle-for-hire driver gunned down

A motorcycle-for-hire driver was shot dead at Tabunok public market Thursday night allegedly by a fellow driver, due to a quarrel over laying claim to a passenger.

Marcelo Labitad, of barangay Camp 6, was cleaning his motorcycle when shot once in the head with a caliber-.357 revolver. He died on the spot.

Responding Talisay City policemen, led by Insp. Gil Limosnero, conducted a hot pursuit operation against the suspected gunman, identified as Rene Briones.

However, as the policemen got nearer their target, an exchange of gunfire ensued when Briones tried to fight it out.

There were reports that Briones was hit but the police said he was able to escape although he left behind his gun still loaded with two live bullets.

Initial police investigation revealed that the slain driver previously had a run-in with his fellow drivers who got angry with him for taking passengers, who are their "suki" or regular patrons.