Americas

Home page

Americas

U.S. marine biologist shot dead in Philippines

15 July 2026 14:01 (UTC +04:00)

U.S. marine biologist Kent Carpenter, 73, was shot dead after three unidentified men entered his home in the central Philippines on Sunday and reportedly fled with cash and other belongings, local media reported on Wednesday, Xinxua reports.

According to reports, Carpenter's live-in partner and her sibling have been identified as persons of interest in the investigation. Authorities said investigators found inconsistencies in the woman's statements. Police also said there is no evidence so far linking either person of interest to the killing.

Police have formed a special investigation task group to investigate the killing and track down the suspects. Authorities said they have found no indication so far that Carpenter's work as a marine biologist was linked to the attack, although all possible motives remain under investigation.

Carpenter was an adjunct professor at Silliman University and a longtime professor at Old Dominion University in the United States. He was widely recognized for his research on coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

Philippines Kent Carpenter marine biologist shooting murder police investigation homicide Silliman University Old Dominion University coral reefs marine biodiversity