Cebu police hunt stepfather suspected of killing 14-year-old stepson

Police in Minglanilla, Cebu, are conducting a hot-pursuit operation to apprehend a 34-year-old man, identified by the alias Romnick, suspected of killing his 14-year-old stepson on August 24.

The suspect initially reported the death to neighbors, claiming the teenager had committed suicide by hanging. However, authorities grew suspicious of foul play after observing the position of the body. The suspect reportedly fled the scene when police attempted to escort him to a hospital.

Witnesses and the victim’s mother have provided conflicting accounts to the suspect's claims. A minor witness alleged the stepfather strangled the boy, and a rope used for tying chickens was reportedly found around the victim's neck. The mother stated she had recently decided to separate from the suspect due to his alleged physical abuse and drug use. She is currently seeking justice for her son as investigators prepare to file formal charges.