Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing of American marine biologist and Old Dominion University professor emeritus Dr. Kent Carpenter, who was fatally shot during a robbery inside his home in Sibulan, Negros Oriental.
Police said the suspects face charges of robbery with homicide, while a manhunt is underway for a fourth suspect identified only by the alias “Eden.”
Investigators said one of the arrested suspects had previously worked as a repairman at Carpenter’s residence, giving him the opportunity to familiarize himself with the property before allegedly planning the robbery.
Authorities said Carpenter, 73, was shot in the head while sitting on a sofa inside his home. The suspects allegedly fled with about ₱75,000 in cash, a laptop computer, and a pair of binoculars.
The Negros Oriental Police said the motive was robbery, adding that investigators found no indication the killing was connected to Carpenter’s scientific research or environmental advocacy.
The victim’s 34-year-old Filipina live-in partner, who was initially considered a person of interest because of inconsistencies in her initial account and the absence of signs of forced entry, has since been cleared of any involvement.
Police said she is undergoing medical evaluation after reporting that she was tied up and assaulted by the intruders during the home invasion.
The arrests came after investigators gathered evidence identifying the suspects, while operations continue to locate the remaining accomplice.
Carpenter was internationally recognized for his contributions to marine biodiversity research and spent more than five decades studying Philippine marine ecosystems. He co-authored the landmark 2005 study that identified the Verde Island Passage as the world’s center of marine shore fish biodiversity.
His death has drawn tributes from the scientific community, including Silliman University and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which honored his decades-long contribution to marine conservation in the Philippines.
