Pinamungajan senior found dead beneath tree, accidental fall suspected

CEBU CITY, Philippines — A 68-year-old man was found dead under a tree in Pinamungajan, Cebu, on Friday morning, July 3, with police initially believing the senior may have sustained fatal injuries after accidentally falling from the tree while gathering fodder for his goats.

The victim was discovered at around 6 a.m. in Purok Kawayan, Barangay Cabiangon, by a resident who had gone to attend to his cow, according to a report from the Pinamungajan Municipal Police Station.

Police said the victim was found lying on the ground beneath a Talisay tree while still clutching leaves in his left hand. A bundle of forage he had gathered was also found beside him.

Investigators likewise observed a broken branch on the Talisay tree directly above where the victim’s body was discovered.

READ: Most wanted person facing multiple rape charges nabbed in Pinamungajan

Victim last seen drinking

Neighbors told police they last saw the victim on the afternoon of Thursday, July 2, carrying a bolo and drinking an alcoholic beverage as he headed out to gather fodder for his goats.

He was found lifeless the following morning.

READ: Young woman found dead in Pinamungajan, Cebu

No signs of foul play

Responding police officers examined the body at the scene and found no apparent signs of foul play or external injuries suggestive of criminal violence.

The senior victim was later declared dead by the medico-legal officer of the Pinamungajan Rural Health Unit.

Based on the initial police investigation, observations made at the scene, statements from the victim’s sister and other relatives, and the initial medico-legal assessment, investigators believe the victim may have sustained fatal injuries as a result of an accidental fall from the tree.

Police have not reported any indication of criminal involvement in the incident.

As of Saturday, July 4, the victim’s remains had been turned over to his family.

READ: Quezon gov expresses grief over family crushed to death by tree during storm

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