Iloilo city: The death of Due±as, Iloilo Vice Mayor Aimee Paz Lamasan was due to accidental firing, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Wednesday. In a press briefing following his visit to the wake of the vice mayor, Remulla stated that Lamasan, who was a gun enthusiast, had 10 registered firearms in her name.

According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla felt compelled to personally investigate the incident due to previous investigative errors by the Philippine National Police in the Cabral case, as well as mistakes made by local police in the investigation of Lamasan's death. During a reenactment of the crime scene, it was revealed that Lamasan's partner, John Byron Torrecarion, had asked if she wanted to put optics on her firearm. The gun in question was described as 'very light-triggered,' and when Lamasan picked it up incorrectly, it resulted in an accidental discharge that entered her abdomen with a hollow point bullet.

Remulla explained that the damage was extensive due to bullet fragments being left inside her body. After reviewing the scene, gathering testimonies, and examining all aspects of their relationship, it was concluded that the death was due to accidental firing. Remulla emphasized that Lamasan was not involved in any flood control issues or projects in the municipality.

The family reported that Lamasan was not experiencing depression, was in good spirits, and had plans for the future, leading investigators to rule out suicide and homicide. Despite the conclusions, the investigation continues to explore all potential angles.

The Special Investigation Task Group, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), will further investigate by securing a statement from the attending physician, counterchecking Crime Laboratory results, and obtaining Torrecarion's statement. Remulla was joined by Acting Philippine National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr., CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II, and Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) director Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan during his visit.

The incident occurred on the morning of Dec. 30 at Lamasan's residence in Puerto Real Subdivision in Iloilo City's La Paz district. She was taken to St. Paul's Hospital but passed away the following day. Lamasan will be laid to rest on Wednesday afternoon.