Man shot dead over parking dispute in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — A man was shot dead by another man who was competing with him to get a customer for a parking space outside a commercial establishment in Ermita, Manila before noon yesterday.

The 43-year-old victim, only known by his alias “Michael Laki,” lay dead near a lottery outlet and a health care store housed at the establishment at the corner of United Nations Avenue and Maria Orosa Street around 11:45 a.m.

“Michael Laki” and an alias “Andy,” both residents of Ermita, were seen apparently shouting at each other and quarreling, until the latter pulled out an unknown firearm, according to witnesses’ accounts and radio reports.

“Michael Laki” was running away when “Andy” reportedly fired three shots at him.

The armed suspect walked away toward UN Avenue.

Earlier reports said the two could have been competing about getting customers to park in their respective slots, which is apparently their livelihood.

“Michael Laki’s” 71-year-old mother, Arceña Navarro, agonized over the death of her son as he was her only companion.

The Manila Police District has yet to provide more information about the incident.