An American marine biologist was killed during a home invasion in the central Philippines, local police reported Tuesday.
Kent Carpenter, 73, was in his house in the coastal town of Sibulan, Negros Oriental province, on Sunday night with his Filipina companion when three masked men forced their way inside. According to Carpenter's companion, one of the intruders produced a firearm and shot Carpenter in the head, killing him instantly. The suspects fled the scene with a laptop, an unspecified amount of cash, and a backpack.
Carpenter's companion sustained injuries that were not detailed but is receiving medical treatment. Police spokesperson Lt. Col. Joem Malong stated that investigators are working to determine the motive for the killing and identify the perpetrators. The U.S. Embassy in Manila has been notified of the incident.
"We assure the victim’s family, the community, and our foreign visitors that this case is being treated with utmost urgency and no effort will be spared until justice is served," said regional police director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño.
Carpenter was recognized for his significant contributions to Philippine marine conservation. He had been associated with Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, since 1976, collaborating on marine research and studies. The university lauded him as an exceptional scientist whose work "transformed global understanding of Philippine marine biodiversity."