Cop fatally shot with own Glock, prompting reinforcement of firearms training

A TRAGIC incident unfolded last Wednesday night, February 28, in Purok 3, Barangay Samay, Gingoog City, resulting in the untimely death of a police officer allegedly due to an accidental discharge of his issued Glock (9mm). Major Joann Navarro, the spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-10, confirmed the incident.

The victim, identified as Police Chief Master Sergeant Marlon D. Valdesco, hailed from the Municipality of Quezon, Bukidnon. Valdesco, an active member of the Philippine National Police, served as a team leader of the Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay (RPSB) stationed in Barangay Binakalan within the city, as disclosed by Major Navarro.

Upon learning of the unfortunate occurrence, Patrolman Bimbim Miculob, a member of the RPSB in Binakalan, promptly reported the incident to higher authorities. Valdesco was swiftly transported to the nearest hospital, Sanitarium Hospital in Gingoog City. Tragically, he was pronounced dead upon arrival, according to the attending physician’s declaration.

Major Navarro revealed that Valdesco sustained fatal injuries to his left thigh and vital organs, resulting in his death.

In response to this distressing event, PRO-10 Director Brigadier Gen. Ricardo Layug, Jr. has mandated an enhancement of firearms proficiency training for police personnel.

Gen. Layug aims to forestall such incidents in the future by also instituting daily Gun Safety Handling sessions in PICE (Police Information and Continuing Education) to bolster the skills of personnel in firearm management, she further explained.

The Regional Director extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family of the deceased.

Following the completion of an autopsy scheduled for March 1, the body of the victim will be conveyed to his residence in Quezon, Bukidnon, as disclosed by P/Col. Cecilio Orcullo, the Gingoog City Chief of Police.