Case Summary (G.R. No. 87318)
Facts of the Case
Jaime Serdan y Gamayon was charged with murder in Criminal Case No. 5630-MN for the death of Ricardo Sy y Co, which occurred on September 14, 1987. The prosecution alleged that Serdan, along with unidentified companions, conspired to kill Sy by attacking and shooting him multiple times while he was in a vehicle. Witnesses testified to seeing Serdan and others firing at the car, leading to Sy's death from multiple gunshot wounds.
Prosecution's Evidence
Witness Fortunato Piquiz recounted his observation of the shooting while he was near the scene, stating he saw Serdan firing at the victim's car. Another witness, Bernardita Tongco, corroborated the gunfire, having seen Serdan shortly after the incident when he was already injured. Pfc. Daniel Cruz and forensic experts provided additional evidence: Cruz found the deceased's body and evidence of gunfire at the scene, while autopsy findings indicated Sy died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Defense's Argument
Serdan's defense claimed he was waiting for a friend when the shooting occurred and insisted he was innocent, having been shot himself during the crossfire. The defense presented witnesses who testified about Serdan’s character and lack of motive, while arguing inconsistencies in the prosecution's witnesses' testimonies concerning Serdan's actions during the incident.
Credibility Assessment
The court emphasized that the credibility of witnesses is paramount in criminal cases. The trial court found the testimonies of Piquiz and Tongco to be credible and consistent while giving less credence to Serdan’s assertions, which it viewed as lacking empirical support. The strong positive identification of Serdan by multiple witnesses bolstered the prosecution’s case against him.
Court's Findings
The trial court concluded that the crime was committed with evident premeditation, conspiracy, and treachery, evidenced by the coordinated attack on Sy, who was in a defenseless position. The court gave weight to witness identification and established the motive, thereby affirming the prosecution’s narrative of the events leading to Sy's murder.
Judicial Outcom
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Case Overview
- The case involves Jaime Serdan y Gamayon, who was charged with murder in Criminal Case No. 5630-MN in the Regional Trial Court of Malabon, Metro Manila.
- The charge stemmed from the shooting of Ricardo Sy y Co on September 14, 1987, while the accused allegedly conspired with unidentified individuals to fatally attack the victim.
- The court found Serdan guilty and sentenced him to life imprisonment and ordered compensation to the victim's heirs.
Background of the Incident
- The shooting incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. on September 14, 1987, on Gov. Pascual Avenue, Malabon, Metro Manila.
- Witness Fortunato Piquiz reported hearing gunshots and saw Serdan and accomplices firing at a gray car occupied by the victim.
- Witness Bernardita Tongco also observed the scene from a distance and later identified Serdan in court.
Evidence Presented
- The prosecution presented several witnesses, including Piquiz and Tongco, who positively identified Serdan as one of the shooters.
- Police officer Pfc. Daniel Cruz conducted the investigation and found the victim dead in the car with multiple gunshot wounds and discovered evidence indicating Serdan's involvement.
- Forensic evidence, including autopsy result