Police investigators examine evidence at the home of an American marine scientist killed in Sibulan, Negros Oriental on July 12, 2026. (NORRPO)
On July 14, the Philippine National Police (PNP) established a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to probe the fatal shooting of an American marine scientist Kent Carpenter and the alleged sexual assault of his Filipina partner at their home in Sibulan, Negros Oriental.
Speaking during a virtual briefing, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office spokesperson Capt. Stephen Jaynard Polinar said the SITG brings together investigators from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, the Provincial Anti-Cybercrime Team, Scene of the Crime Operatives and other law enforcement units.
Police said three masked men wearing bonnets forced their way into Dr. Carpenter’s residence in Barangay Ajong at about 11:30 pm on July 12. The 73-year-old scientist was reportedly shot in the head and died at the scene.
The suspects also allegedly sexually assaulted Dr. Carpenter’s 34-year-old Filipina partner, who is now receiving assistance from the police Women and Children Protection Desk. Her identity has not been disclosed for privacy and security reasons.
Investigators believe robbery may have been the primary motive, as several valuables were reportedly taken from the house. However, Polinar said other possible motives remain under investigation while authorities continue to determine what items were stolen.
The victim’s family in the US and the US Embassy in the Philippines have been informed of his death.
Dr. Kent Carpenter was internationally recognised for his pioneering work on fish biodiversity and authored the study identifying the Verde Island Passage as the world’s “Centre of Marine Shore Fish Biodiversity”. He also served as an adjunct professor and associate researcher at Silliman University, Philippines.
Police regional director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño condemned the attack and pledged that investigators would use every legal means available to identify and arrest those responsible as quickly as possible.
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