Photo credit: Elliot Eastman

In a heartbreaking turn of events, authorities have confirmed that American vlogger Elliott Eastman, who was abducted from his home in Zamboanga del Norte last October, has been killed.

According to a witness account, Eastman was shot during an altercation with his kidnappers on the night of his abduction and later thrown overboard into the sea near Zamboanga City.

Eastman, known for his engaging content and connection with his Filipino audience, had been living in the Philippines with his Filipina wife before the tragic incident. The Philippine National Police (PNP) shared that despite extensive search operations, Eastman’s body has not yet been recovered.

The investigation, led by the Critical Incident Management Task Group (CIMTG), has resulted in the arrest of one suspect.

Complaints of Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention were filed against four identified individuals shortly after the abduction. Two suspects remain at large, but authorities are continuing their pursuit to bring them to justice.

The PNP has assured the public that every effort is being made to resolve the case fully and hold all perpetrators accountable. Eastman’s family is being closely coordinated with during this challenging time.

This tragic event has shaken the community, but the PNP maintains that the Zamboanga Peninsula remains safe and secure despite the incident.