CRIME OF PASSION
Hubby stabs law stude-wife, kills self

By Florence F. Hibionada

Longtime unresolved marital issues between a young couple in La Paz District, Iloilo City had its tragic end early morning yesterday.  In an incident that shocked and stunned even the most veteran in domestic abuse cases, the families of the two grieve over the death of the husband and the serious injuries sustained by the wife.  Such, on top of the tragedy unknown to the couple’s children, young girls aged 3 and 2.

The gruesome incident involved 26 year-old Norberto Espura and his wife, 23 year-old Jennifer Jeruta.  Both are considered victims in this case with investigators reached by The News Today confirming that no third party is being eyed on the actual stabbing incident that led to the death of one and wounding of the other.

Reports validated thus far disclosed how Norberto sought the whereabouts of his wife late Wednesday evening.  With the help of Renante Porras, a neighbor and relative, the two went around the district and the city’s nightspots yet failed to locate her.
 
In between his search, the wife reportedly sent text messages saying that she was just waiting for her ride home and that she was with friends for a group study.  The 23 year-old Jennifer is a freshman Law student of the University of Iloilo and is said to be a contractual employee of City Hall.

Norberto decided to wait in the spot by Barangay Baldoza where he knew his wife would pass and to his companion’s shock, rushed towards Jennifer upon seeing her thereafter.  Norberto then began to stab his wife who ended up with some nine stab wounds, stabbed himself in between and in his final attempt to yet stab her anew by grabbing her hair, Norberto suddenly fell by the roadside.

Porras rushed Jennifer to the hospital where hospital authorities said she remains to date in critical condition.  Norberto on the other hand did not survive the injuries he inflicted unto himself.

Radio interviews granted by family members heard opposing views of the two families.  Norberto’s side disclosed alleged trouble caused by the late nights of his wife and text messages from a male friend.  The other party raised concern on the purported irregular mental state of Norberto saying he showed signs of depression and insecurity.