Authorities confirmed that the death of Crystal Joy Lagaras Abarquez marked a tragic end to the search for the Grade 6 student, whose body was discovered in Barangay Ibo.
Crystal Joy disappeared on February 11, and her family immediately sought help to locate her. For more than a week, relatives, neighbors, and local officials searched for the young girl.
On February 19, authorities found a body in a mountainous area in Sitio Pajo, Barangay Ibo. The remains were already in an advanced state of decomposition.
Her family identified her through the clothes and personal items she was wearing, including her skirt, sandals, and necklace.
Witnesses reported that they found her body tied to a tree. Some body parts were separated, and investigators believe that animals may have dragged certain portions due to the condition of the remains.
Crystal Joy’s mother described her as a graduating Grade 6 student of North City Central School.
She said her daughter did not have a boyfriend and focused on her studies. The family continues to struggle with the loss as they seek justice for her death.
The Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) processed the area and collected evidence to determine what happened.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from the days before her disappearance. The footage reportedly showed the victim riding on a motorcycle driven by a male relative shortly before she went missing.
Police arrested 27-year-old Rowell Lagaras Villapiña Jr., who is reportedly related to the victim through her mother’s side.
An eyewitness claimed to have seen him accompanying the girl. Authorities stated that the suspect initially joined the search efforts and denied involvement.
However, investigators said the CCTV footage and witness accounts contradicted his statements.
Initial information also suggests that the suspect may have been involved in illegal drug use. Police are preparing a case of rape with homicide against him.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to gather more evidence and ensure accountability.
Crystal Joy’s family, along with local officials in Toledo City, is calling for swift justice.
The tragic case has shaken the community, as residents mourn the loss of a young girl whose life ended far too soon.
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