A family dispute ended in tragedy when a 74-year-old woman was struck fatally on the head with a piece of firewood by her son in Sitio Banga-an, Barangay Dinwede West.

The victim was identified as Adilina Bayawa.

She succumbed to injuries after a violent altercation with her 24-year-old son.

Based on initial police investigation, the incident began as an argument between the two and escalated until the son struck his mother.

Another family member found Bayawa later lying lifeless and bloodied behind their house.

PCpt. Alden Isang, Chief of the Cervantes Police Station, said the suspect surrendered to authorities voluntarily and brought the firewood he reportedly used in the crime.

"Hindi natin nakausap ng husto kasi ‘yung suspek... kasi allegation nila, ‘yung suspek natin may mental problem, according sa pamilya," he said.

The suspect now faces parricide charges.

Authorities are considering a court-ordered medical examination to determine the suspect’s mental health.