A MARINE biologist has been killed after three masked men broke into his home and shot him in the head.

American national Kent Carpenter, 73, had been watching TV with his Filipina girlfriend, 34, when the thugs busted into the couple’s home in Sibulan, central Philippines.

Professor Kent Carpenter standing in front of samples of sealife

Police found Kent Carpenter dead on the couch

The horrifying home invasion unfolded at around 11:30pm on July 12.

Once inside the house, a man quickly pulled a gun and shot Kent in the head – killing him instantly – the girlfriend told cops.

She was then allegedly tied up and beaten before the murderous fiends ransacked the property.

The trio allegedly stole a laptop, cash and a backpack before making their escape.

When police arrived at the scene they found Kent lying dead on a couch and his girlfriend with multiple bruises.

Detectives have launched a probe into the brutal attack and created a special taskforce to track down the perpetrators.

It is unclear why the thugs targeted the home of Kent Carpenter or why they killed the professor.

“We’re looking at all motives”, said Colonel Allen Rae Co, from the Philippine National Police, adding “We are not discounting anything.”

Tributes have poured in for the distinguished scientist

The American biologist championed conservation efforts in the Phillippines

Police have not yet identified any suspects but will be scouring CCTV and conducting witness interviews to find the three men.

Kent was a part-time professor and researcher at Silliman University.

He had spent more than 50 years studying Philippine marine life and fighting to preserve reefs and national parks.

His suspected murder has sparked an outpouring of grief from scientists and conservationists.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park said Kent was a “brilliant scientist” who was “driven by a love for the reef”.

They added: “You are sorely missed, Kent. Sleep with angels.”

The biologist’s university also poured out a tribute to their adjunct professor.

In a heartfelt statement, they said: “Beyond his remarkable scholarly achievements, Dr Carpenter was a generous mentor, collaborator, and friend to the Silliman community.

“His passing is a tremendous loss not only to his family and colleagues but also to the generations of students, researchers, conservationists, and institutions whose work has been enriched by his intellect, generosity, and unwavering dedication to science.”

Source: https://www.the-sun.com/news/16691998/american-marine-biologist-shot-dead-philippines-home-burglary/