The Philippine National Police has intensified its manhunt for the last remaining suspect in the killing of American marine biologist Kent Carpenter following the arrest or surrender of three other individuals allegedly involved in the crime.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units whose swift response led to the apprehension of the suspects identified only by their aliases “M.O.,” the alleged gunman; “J.F.,” who allegedly sexually assaulted Carpenter’s live-in partner; and “C.D.,” who reportedly served as a lookout and later surrendered to authorities.
The suspects were apprehended by personnel of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and other operating units.
The arrests came days after Nartatez ordered a thorough investigation into the case in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to intensify the campaign against violent crimes.
Authorities are still pursuing a fourth suspect known by the alias “Eden,” who allegedly fled with the group’s loot in what police believe may have been a robbery that turned deadly.
“The swift arrest of three suspects reflects the dedication and professionalism of our investigators. Our work is far from over. Our priority is to complete the case by arresting the remaining suspect, ensuring all evidence is properly documented, and building a strong case that will secure the conviction of everyone responsible,” Nartatez said.
Initial investigation showed that the suspects allegedly entered Carpenter’s residence in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, on July 12. Police said the evidence gathered so far points to robbery as the motive.
One of the suspects previously worked at the victims’ residence and allegedly used the opportunity to observe the property before the crime.
Investigators are also determining whether the suspects were involved in earlier robbery incidents in the area.
Police said there is no indication at this stage that Carpenter’s killing was connected to his work as a marine biologist or his reported role in the Philippines’ 2016 South China Sea arbitral victory.
“I have directed all concerned units to sustain intensified manhunt operations until the remaining suspect is arrested,” Nartatez said.
“We are maximizing intelligence gathering, coordinating closely with neighboring police units, and encouraging the public to provide any information that can lead to his immediate capture. We will not stop until every person involved in this crime is brought before the courts,” he added.
The three suspects are facing robbery with homicide charges, while authorities continue to conduct forensic examinations in connection with the alleged sexual assault on Carpenter’s live-in partner.
The PNP appealed to the public to report any information that could lead to the immediate arrest of the remaining suspect.