The Guam Police Department, through a news release, informed the media this afternoon that “multiple suspects are in custody” in the case of the robbery and shooting death of Sumittra Lairopi on Valentine’s Day outside Thai Thai restaurant in Tamuning. It is unclear whether source reports of a police raid in Sinajana around noon today also is related to this case, however the GPD release states the department’s forces have prioritized and are dedicated to bringing justice to Ms. Lairopi and her family.
Two people have been arrested, one for Ms. Lairopi’s murder and the other for her involvement with the conspiracy leading to her murder.
Please see the news release below from the GPD:
The Guam Police Department identified Domingo C. Mendiola as a suspect. He was located and brought in for questioning. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Section has sufficient probable cause to effectuate the arrest of Mr. Mendiola for the following offenses:
Aggravated Murder Conspiracy Aggravated Assault Robbery
- Reckless Conduct
- Use of A Deadly Weapon in the commission of a felony
- Discharge of a Firearm
- Guilt by Complicity
- Criminal Facilitation
- Theft of a Motor Vehicle
- Destroying Evidence
Additional Information surfaced through the investigation Mendiola’s girlfriend, Jenna Rose Calinagan Manibusan provided Mendiola with substantial aid in planning and facilitating the commission of his crimes. Sufficient Probable Cause to effectuate an arrest of Jenna R.C. Manibusan for the following offense:
- Guilt by Complicity
- Conspiracy
- Criminal Facilitation
Both Mendiola and Manibusan were Confined to the Department of Corrections
Please note that due to the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation, certain details may be limited to protect the integrity of the case. The case remains OPEN and under Investigation.
Background:
Since our initial holding statement, earlier this morning shortly after 11:00AM, the Guam Police Department has been actively working on this case, dedicating significant resources to bring justice to the victim, Sumittra Lairopi, and her family.
Case Overview:
On the evening of February 14, 2024, Mrs. Lairopi was tragically shot during a robbery outside the Thai Thai Healthy Cuisine Restaurant while having dinner with friends on Valentine’s Day. The suspects not only robbed her of personal belongings but also took her vehicle. Despite the immediate response from our officers and emergency medical services, Mrs. Lairopi succumbed to her injuries and was later pronounced deceased.
Investigative Progress:
The Guam Police Department has diligently pursued every available lead and resource to shed light on this heinous crime. Our dedicated team of officers has conducted multiple follow-ups, leveraging the collective expertise and commitment of the men and women in blue. Their hard work has resulted in the identification of several individuals involved in planning and executing this incident.
Our investigators have been meticulously piecing together the details to understand the motive behind this reprehensible act.
Monday Morning Press Conference Details:
The Guam Police Department invited members of the media to a press conference on February 19, 2024, scheduled for 11:00 AM at the Guam Police Department Headquarters in Tiyan, Barrigada. Chief Ignacio identified the victim, Sumittra Lairopi and confirmed her passing, leaving 3 children and her husband.
There have been multiple suspects that have been identified and are in police custody as the case continues and develops.
