Police looking into 6 persons of interest in killing of Batangas working student

SAN JOSE, Batangas — Police are looking into six persons of interest in the killing of Charles Usi, a 22-year-old musician and working student of Westmead International School in San Jose, Batangas, authorities said.

San Jose Municipal Police Station chief PMaj. Florencio Caisip Jr. said four of the six persons of interest have already been identified based on a witness statement.

The individuals are not yet considered suspects but may have information that could help investigators solve the case.

Investigators are pursuing two possible motives: a love angle and a work-related dispute.

Caisip declined to provide more details.

Police are still securing CCTV footage that may have captured the suspects.

Usi’s remains are now at his family’s home in Barangay Lumil, San Jose, Batangas.

He was shot at around 9 p.m. on Sunday while riding his motorcycle in Barangay Banay-Banay 2nd, San Jose, on his way home from a performance in Lipa City. 

The attack was carried out by two motorcycle-riding gunmen.

Usi sustained multiple gunshot wounds from a .45-caliber firearm.

Usi was known in Batangas for his singing talent and frequently performed at bars and coffee shops, and was regularly engaged in busking.

Various student organizations, artists’ groups, and business establishments in Batangas have condemned his killing and called for justice.