A twenty-two-year-old construction worker, Peter Amaud Lara, found himself in hot water after being accused of going on a shopping spree with a stolen Atlantic Bank Debit card. Lara, who lives on Central American Boulevard in Belize City, was charged with card theft and appeared in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court. Lara faced three counts of card theft, accused of using Mía Buller’s lost debit card to swipe over three hundred dollars at various stores on December nineteenth, 2024. He allegedly spent twelve dollars at Chens Store and two hundred and forty dollars at Zen Zen Supermarket. Initially, Lara pleaded guilty to the first two counts but changed his plea to not guilty after learning that Buller wanted to drop the charges. In court, Lara explained that he had been at the police station since Friday and handed over the card when the police arrived. He claimed he didn’t steal the card but got it from someone else who asked him to withdraw cash. Buller, the twenty-one-year-old sales agent, confirmed she had received her money back and didn’t want to proceed with the case, stating that Lara was just following someone else’s instructions. Despite Buller’s request to drop the charges, the Chief Magistrate wasn’t convinced that Lara should be let off the hook so easily. Lara was granted bail set at five thousand dollars with two sureties of two thousand, five hundred dollars each. The prosecutor was instructed to investigate further and report back by Lara’s next court date on February eighteenth, 2025.
Day: December 27, 2024
BDF Driver Charged After Truck Overturns
Forty-eight-year-old Joseph Cifiriano Avila, a Belize Defense Force truck driver from Lord’s Bank Village, has been charged with “failure to provide a specimen” and “driving without due care and attention.” The charges come on the heels of a Christmas Eve accident on the Southern Highway. The crash happened near the Bocawina Junction just before seven p.m. on Tuesday. Video footage shows Avila’s truck flipped onto its roof as he was driving from Punta Gorda to Price Barracks, with one passenger on board. Avila told police he swerved to avoid a motorcycle, causing the truck to veer off the road and overturn. Officers noted a strong smell of alcohol on Avila’s breath, and he refused to provide a sample for testing. He was subsequently charged and issued a Notice of Intended Prosecution. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported from the incident.
Belizean Legend Behind Super Furia Band Loses Cancer Battle
If you don’t already know his name, you certainly know his music. Francisco Alcoser Senior, affectionately known as “Pancho,” cemented his place in history as one of Belize’s musical icons. Belizeans everywhere are mourning his passing. Pancho is best known as the founder of the Orange Walk-based Super Furia Band, a beloved group that has entertained generations with its vibrant mix of cumbia, soca, and punta. The sixty-year-old passed away the day after Christmas, following a courageous battle with colon cancer. Now, his family and fans are left to celebrate his remarkable life and continue spreading his passion for music across Belize.
Roxana Anderson, Franciso’s Daughter
“He started the music and the passion for music from before he was even born. Music was always in his bloodstream. I believe his grandparents used to play at the church choirs and etcetera. So that’s how he got really inspired. And then his brother had a bond which he played in and Lucio and the New Generation. And so he ever since he just said, you know what? This is what I want to do for the rest of my life. And from high school. I believe he was in the age of twelve. He started doing music and, that’s how he will always be remembered he always said music is life. He found happiness just seeing his children and family continuing his legacy that he has set a bar like way up high. So it’s it makes us even harder for us to try to keep up to him. But I do think that we had a really good teacher, because I always say that I learned to sing from him and it was hard learning to sing because at that point in time, I’m talking about twenty plus years ago. They had cassette players and to be rewinding and to be practicing a song. So my dad would sing the song for me and then I would have to write the lyrics from what he’s singing to me and learning from him. And I could, and I vividly remember too, with my brothers, he would stay hours and my brothers would be like, but my fingers are hurting, because it does take quite a lot of practice and so forth. But he’s you’re going to love it. You just got to break through and keep going. And he was the biggest and motivator, and he always encouraged new artists. It started in summer and in July and he complained about a back pain and then so they said, the doctor said his kidney stones and then they did further more research and until they found out that he has colon cancer, so he started a couple of treatments in Mexico and anyone that’s going through cancer, they are true warriors because it’s nothing easy. After those treatments, they feel ill and they’re not themselves anymore. But I must say that because my father always put God first, I think that’s what gives him the strength that he needs. So every time after chemo, he’s smiling, he’s still listening to his music.”
Veronica Alcoser, Francisco’s Daughter-in-law
“For Christmas Day, we were here the day before he dead. We were, speaking to him and we were listening to some cumbia because my mother-in-law, she wanted, okay, say, it’s Christmas, let’s have a little celebration in the living room. And he said, what are you guys listening? I want Belizean music. And all of us were like, okay, put on the Belizean music. Okay. So right there, he was happy. And, I clearly remember that because he was speaking until two hours before his death. He told the guys do not cancel any job if something happens, you’ve got to do your job because you already have a compromise.”
“This Sunday right here in Orange Walk number two Santa Famila Street, we’ll be hosting celebration victory for my dad because he has won a spot there in heaven. So he is a true champ. So it’s gonna be starting this Sunday. We’re inviting all Belizean bands and musicians to come, we’re gonna have a mega stage. Because we gotta do it big. Just the way he wants it.”
Britney Gordon for News Five.
New Sugarcane Crop Season Officially Opens
This morning at 10 a.m., the gates of the Belize Sugar Industry (BSI) in Orange Walk opened, welcoming sugarcane farmers to make their first deliveries as they mark the start of the new sugarcane crop season. BSI’s communications director, William Neal, told News 5 that despite challenges such as heavy rainfall and the spread of fusarium disease, which has affected much of the northern cane crop, the company remains “optimistic.”
The opening followed a brief symbolic ceremony, during which leaders from various sugar cane associations participated in a “cane toss.” Neal explained, “The different associations’ leaders will bring a bundle of cane and toss it into the carriers, signalling the beginning of the crop season.”
Although the season was initially set to begin on December 16, Neal assured that the delay still keeps the opening within the preferred grinding window, which runs from mid-December to late May, or even June.
Last month, the Ministry of Agriculture declared a state of emergency due to a fungal disease, Fusarium, which has affected up to 40,000 acres of sugar cane. This disease causes the cane to yellow and wilt, making it unsuitable for sugar production. When asked what impacts this can have on this year’s crop season, Neal assured that BSI remains hopeful for a smooth crop season despite the fungal threat. He said, “In some areas they’re saying the fusarium could impact, especially in the Corozal District, where it’s more pervasive, with as much as 30% of production; that is significant. But we are keeping our fingers crossed, and we are hoping that we will be able to bring in as much cane as possible and have another record in terms of payments, as well as our sugar productions.”
Strengthening Disaster Resilience and Response in Belize in 2024
As we wrap up 2024, News 5 is excited to bring you our digital Year in Review! This year, we're diving into the highlights and challenges of the past twelve months, all organized by themes. Join us as we look back at the stories that shaped our year…
The year 2024 presented unprecedented challenges for Belize in disaster response and preparedness. From devastating wildfires to severe flooding, Tropical Storms Sara and Nadine, and Hurricane Beryl, the nation’s resilience was tested.
Wildfires and Environmental Impact
Belize experienced one of its most severe wildfire seasons, with widespread fires causing extensive damage to the environment, agriculture, and communities. The wildfires were exacerbated by an uncharacteristically long dry season and record high temperatures, leading to significant challenges in managing and containing the fires. The wildfires devastated large tracts of land, including protected areas and farmlands. In the Toledo District, fires destroyed over 600 acres of farmland, affecting around 250 families and causing an estimated $8 million in damages. The fires also impacted the Maya Golden Landscape, managed by the Ya’axche Conservation Trust, where over 2,000 acres of forest were lost. The fires not only destroyed crops such as cacao, corn, and beans but also displaced wildlife, including tapirs, ocelots, and gibnuts.
The response to the wildfires involved a collaborative effort between government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private sector companies. The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) played a central role in coordinating relief efforts, conducting damage assessments, and providing support to affected communities. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) and the Belize Defence Force (BDF) also contributed resources and manpower to fight the fires. In San Pedro Columbia, community members and organisations like the Maya Leaders Alliance (MLA) and Ya’axche Conservation Trust worked together to control the fires and protect their livelihoods. The government, recognising the severity of the situation, declared a national disaster to access international resources and allocated $1 million from the contingency fund for immediate relief efforts.
The wildfires highlighted the need for updated disaster risk management plans and better preparedness for such events. The government acknowledged that traditional farming practices, such as slash and burn, contributed to the fires and emphasised the need for safer agricultural practices. The fires also underscored the importance of environmental management, including controlled burns and reforestation efforts, to prevent future disasters. International support played a crucial role in the recovery efforts. The European Union provided $170,000 in humanitarian assistance through the Belize Red Cross to support affected families with health, water, sanitation services, and cash assistance. The government also worked with international organisations like NASA to assess the damage and plan for long-term recovery.
As the fires continued to burn in some areas, the government and its partners remained vigilant, monitoring the situation and providing ongoing support to affected communities. The Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change emphasised the need for continuous education and awareness about fire prevention and management. The experiences of 2024 underscored the importance of community cooperation, timely response, and proactive measures in managing natural disasters. The lessons learnt from this wildfire season will inform future efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable Belize, better prepared to handle the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.
Tropical Storms Sara and Nadine
In 2024, Belize faced significant challenges from tropical storms Sara and Nadine, both of which brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread flooding. Tropical Storm Sara formed off the coast of Honduras and Nicaragua, initially projected to head towards the Gulf of Mexico. However, its path shifted, bringing it closer to Belize. By the time it made landfall, Sara had strengthened, with maximum sustained winds of around 50 miles per hour. The storm’s slow movement resulted in heavy rainfall, particularly affecting Middle Caye, which recorded a staggering seventeen inches of rain. Sara’s impact was felt across Belize, with significant flooding reported in various areas. NEMO activated emergency operation centres and coordinated relief efforts, ensuring shelters were ready and advising the public to prepare for potential flooding and strong winds.
Tropical Storm Nadine followed closely on the heels of Sara, forming rapidly and making landfall just south of Belize City with winds of 50 miles per hour. Nadine brought heavy rains and strong winds, particularly affecting Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and the Corozal District. Despite the storm, many street vendors in Belize City continued their operations, highlighting the resilience and determination of the local community. Nadine’s heavy rainfall led to significant rises in river levels, particularly the Macal and Mopan Rivers, causing widespread flooding in the western regions. The three hydroelectric dams managed by Fortis Belize Limited, particularly the Mollejon and Vaca Dams, experienced spillovers due to the excessive rainfall.
Both storms tested Belize’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities. NEMO and other government agencies worked tirelessly to coordinate relief efforts, provide timely updates, and ensure the safety of residents. The Prime Minister and other officials conducted aerial assessments to understand the extent of the damage and plan recovery efforts. In Belize City, Mayor Bernard Wagner praised the community’s swift response and resilience in the face of Tropical Storm Nadine. The city’s drainage systems, improved through recent projects, helped mitigate some of the flooding, although certain flood-prone areas still experienced significant water accumulation.
The experiences with tropical storms Sara and Nadine underscored the importance of continuous monitoring, timely communication, and community cooperation in disaster preparedness and response. The government acknowledged the need for better environmental management practices, including reforestation and improved drainage systems, to prevent future flooding. Overall, 2024 highlighted the resilience and adaptability of Belizeans in the face of natural disasters. The lessons learnt from these storms will inform future efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable Belize, better prepared to handle the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.
Hurricane Beryl: A Historic Threat
Hurricane Beryl, a historic event in 2024, marked the first time a category four hurricane developed in the Atlantic basin in June, a period typically not associated with such intense storms, which are usually more common between August and October. Beryl rapidly intensified over the weekend before making landfall in the eastern Caribbean. Initially, there was uncertainty about whether Belize would experience a direct hit, but the hurricane’s path included both Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula within its projected cone of impact.
In response, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) in Belize activated early, holding daily press conferences to keep the public informed. Residents, particularly those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, were advised to prepare for strong winds and heavy rainfall. The Belize Sugar Industries Limited halted cane processing as a precaution, resulting in significant losses for cane farmers, while recent flooding in the sugar belt raised concerns about further inundation from the storm. Many residents, especially from San Pedro and Caye Caulker, evacuated to the mainland, and local airlines and water taxis suspended services until it was safe to resume.
In preparation for the storm, shelters were set up across the country, especially in the Corozal District, which was expected to be the most impacted. Local authorities and residents worked together to clear drainage systems and secure properties. However, despite these extensive preparations, Beryl did not make a direct hit on Belize. The northernmost parts of the country experienced some rain and wind, but the impact was far less severe than initially anticipated.
Flooding: A National Challenge
Belize experienced significant and widespread flooding, impacting various regions and communities across the country. The year was marked by a series of heavy rains, tropical storms, and hurricanes that exacerbated the flooding situation, leading to substantial damage and disruption. The flooding had a severe impact on Belize’s agricultural sector, particularly affecting cane farmers in the northern districts. Villages like Libertad and Caledonia saw extensive damage to cane fields, with many farmers losing their crops due to inundation. The access roads to these fields were also heavily damaged, complicating efforts to salvage any remaining crops. The Coastal Plain Highway, a critical infrastructure project, suffered significant damage due to flooding. Portions of the road crumbled under the weight of floodwaters, highlighting issues related to deforestation and inadequate drainage systems. The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) worked on repairs, including the installation of concrete reinforcements to prevent future damage.
Several communities faced unprecedented flooding, with areas like August Pine Ridge and San Roman Village experiencing severe inundation. In San Roman, the flooding was so extensive that the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) had to ferry villagers in and out using boats. The Mopan River also overflowed, causing significant disruption in San Jose Succotz and Benque Viejo Town. In urban areas like Belize City, the City Emergency Management Organization (CEMO) issued warnings and took preventive measures to manage the flooding. Mayor Bernard Wagner emphasised the importance of community involvement in maintaining drainage systems to mitigate the impact of heavy rains.
The government and various organisations played a crucial role in responding to the flooding. NEMO was actively involved in coordinating relief efforts, providing transportation, and setting up shelters for displaced residents. The Prime Minister conducted aerial assessments of the affected areas to understand the extent of the damage and plan recovery efforts. The Ministry of Agriculture worked closely with farmers to assess the damage and provide support. Efforts were made to improve the resilience of agricultural practices, including the introduction of new cane varieties that are more resistant to flooding.
The flooding highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and deforestation. The government acknowledged the need for better environmental management practices to prevent such disasters in the future. Initiatives to reforest areas and improve drainage systems were discussed as part of long-term solutions. Despite the challenges, communities across Belize demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Residents in flood-prone areas took proactive measures to protect their homes and livelihoods. In places like Rancho Dolores and Lemonal, villagers used boats to navigate flooded roads and continued their daily activities despite the disruptions. The year 2024 underscored the importance of preparedness and community cooperation in facing natural disasters. The experiences and lessons learnt from the flooding will inform future efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable Belize.
Policy and Community Resilience
Belize’s disaster response in 2024 highlighted several areas requiring improvement, with a strong focus on building resilience through policy and community initiatives. Damage to critical infrastructure, such as the Coastal Plains Highway, emphasised the urgent need for resilient infrastructure projects. Minister Julius Espat stressed the importance of this investment, stating, “Our roads must be designed to withstand these recurring floods. It’s no longer an option but a necessity.”
Community education also played a pivotal role in mitigating disaster impacts. Public awareness campaigns on fire prevention and flood preparedness were credited with saving lives, a point underscored by NEMO’s National Coordinator Daniel Mendez, who remarked, “Education saved lives this year.”
International collaboration proved invaluable, with partnerships involving organisations like the European Union and the U.S. Embassy providing critical resources. These included funding for hurricane shelters and technical support for disaster management efforts. Additionally, environmental management initiatives focused on sustainable land-use practices and reforestation emerged as key strategies for addressing the root causes of wildfires and flooding. “We’re looking at long-term solutions to protect our people and our ecosystems,” noted Minister Habet, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges comprehensively.
Genetic Changes Found in U.S First Severe Bird Flu Case
Although Belize remains free of avian influenza, the U.S. is facing rising cases. A recent genetic analysis of the avian influenza, also known as the bird flu virus, found in a Louisiana patient has revealed mutations that may enable the virus to more easily bind to human respiratory cells. While the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has called these mutations concerning, it emphasised that the overall risk to the general public remains low.
According to reports, the Louisiana patient was hospitalised in critical condition after coming into contact with sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. This case marks the first severe instance of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. in recent years.
Bird flu is a contagious disease that mainly affects birds but can rarely spread to humans. In humans, bird flu can cause symptoms like fever, muscle aches, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and headaches. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), diarrhoea, and trouble breathing. The virus spreads when a person comes into contact with infected birds, their bedding, or their droppings.
The CDC’s analysis, published this week, showed that the mutations detected in the virus were not present in the birds, suggesting that they likely developed during the patient’s illness. However, experts like Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Minnesota, stressed that while the virus may be adapting, it is not yet capable of spreading easily between people. “This is a key that sits in the lock, but it doesn’t open the door,” Osterholm said.
The CDC confirmed there has been no evidence of the virus spreading from the Louisiana patient to others. The CDC also noted that the mutations detected in the patient’s virus did not show signs of resistance to antiviral treatments or changes that would make the virus more adaptable to mammals. This means current treatments and vaccines, if needed, are still effective.
In 2024, the CDC has confirmed 65 human cases of H5N1 in the U.S. Of those, 39 were linked to dairy herds and 23 to poultry farms and culling operations. Two cases have unknown sources of exposure. The Louisiana patient is the only known case connected to backyard birds.
For now, the CDC says the risk to the general population remains low but stressed the importance of ongoing surveillance to monitor its changes.
Where is 20-Year-Old Joshua Hall?
Police and family members continue searching for 20-year-old Joshua James Maurice Hall, a resident of San Antonio Village, Corozal District, who has been missing since Monday, December 23. Joshua was last seen at the Corozal Police Station to meet a sign-in requirement.
His sister, Eden Hall, told News 5 that Joshua was released just a month ago, on November 26. “His terms of condition of his bail were to sign in on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the police station in Corozal. He also had a 6 p.m. curfew, which he would abide by,” Eden added.
According to Eden, records confirm that Joshua signed in at the police station at 8:58 a.m., but “the officer who he signed in with could not confirm that he saw Joshua leave out of the station.”
The family has met with the commanding officer in Corozal to see if there has been any progress, but Eden says that they “haven’t had any leads. The cameras that are around that police said that they’re looking at, they haven’t found anything.,” Eden said. “The last known location was the police station… At this point we are suspecting anyone.”
With his baby on the way, Eden said that Joshua’s behaviour had improved after he was released: “He was trying to maintain good behaviour,” she said, adding that “His only way of contact was Facebook or Instagram. He did not have a cell phone number. He wasn’t a very big fan of phones or technology or anything like that.”
Eden added that the family has been receiving “blank calls” and that they’re not sure if someone is on the other side of the call trying to give information but “doesn’t know how to say it.”
The family has gathered a $5,000 reward for anyone who can provide useful information that can lead the family to find Joshua. “All we want as a family is closure,” Eden Hall said.
Joshua was last seen wearing a green shirt, black cargo pants, and black Nike flip-flops, and riding a pink bicycle. Anyone with information is urged to contact the family at the numbers provided.
- 632-5603
- 656-0635
- 615-5851
- 663-5094
BDF Truck Driver Charged After Christmas Eve Crash
A Belize Defence Force (BDF) truck driver has been charged following an accident on the Southern Highway on Christmas Eve. Joseph Cifiriano Avila, 48, from Lord’s Bank Village, faces charges of “failure to provide specimen” and “driving without due care and attention.”
The crash occurred near the Bocawina Junction around 6:40 p.m. on Tuesday. Video footage shows Avila’s truck flipped onto its roof while he was driving from Punta Gorda to Price Barracks.
He was accompanied by one passenger.
Avila told police he swerved to avoid a motorcycle, but the truck veered off the road and overturned.
Officers detected a strong scent of alcohol on Avila’s breath, and he refused to provide a sample for testing. He was later charged and issued a Notice of Intended Prosecution.
No serious injuries were reported from the incident.
Belize’s Economic Journey in 2024: Growth, Challenges, and Opportunities
As we wrap up 2024, News 5 is excited to bring you our digital Year in Review! This year, we're diving into the highlights and challenges of the past twelve months, all organised by themes. Join us as we look back at the stories that shaped our year…
Belize’s economy reflects a year of significant fiscal manoeuvres, development strides, and critical reforms under the leadership of Prime Minister John Briceño. The administration has worked to stabilise the economy while addressing challenges such as inflation, rising living costs, and public sector efficiency.
Fiscal Performance and Budgetary Allocations
The fiscal year was defined by a projected revenue of $1.5 billion and expenditures of $1.6 billion, emphasising fiscal prudence and targeted investments. Revenue was primarily sourced from goods and services ($791 million), income and profits ($365 million), international trade and transactions ($223 million), and property taxes ($7.17 million). On the expenditure side, 73% of the budget was allocated to recurrent spending, with wages and pensions comprising 30 and 7 cents of every dollar, respectively. Capital investments focused on infrastructure ($49 million), health ($35 million for NHI expansion), and education ($12 million for the Education Upliftment Project), which saw 12 additional high schools join the initiative, benefiting approximately 6,000 students.
Public Debt Management and Economic Growth
Belize also achieved significant progress in public debt management, reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio from 103% in 2020 to 64% by the end of 2024. This was facilitated by primary surpluses averaging 5% of GDP over three years and growth in sectors such as tourism, construction, and business process outsourcing (BPO). The Central Bank reported a robust 7% GDP growth for 2024, exceeding regional averages, with GDP per capita rising by $5,500 compared to 2020. Key contributors to this growth included wholesale and retail trade, accommodations, and transportation.
Inflation and the Cost of Living
Inflation, while easing from 6.3% in 2022 to 3.6% in 2024, remained a concern for households, particularly due to rising costs of locally produced food. Staples like bread, meats, and cooking oils saw significant price increases, with 63% of inflation attributed to domestic prices. The increase in the minimum wage to $5 per hour benefitted over 40,000 workers but also contributed to mild inflationary pressures. Prime Minister Briceño defended the policy, citing its positive impact on purchasing power and economic activity.
The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) revealed a 10.1% reduction in poverty since 2021, driven by improvements in underemployment, food security, and access to services. However, the intensity of poverty among affected households remained steady at 38.4%. Unemployment reached a historic low of 2.1%, though disparities persisted in rural communities, where poverty reduction efforts lagged.
Innovations in Financial Systems
Belize’s financial system underwent transformative changes, including the introduction of a credit reporting system by the Central Bank, enabling Belizeans to build credit scores based on traditional and non-traditional data such as utility payment history. Additionally, domestic banks reduced fees for online transactions and ATM withdrawals to promote financial inclusion and modernise payment systems.
Public Spending Challenges
A World Bank review highlighted inefficiencies in public spending, particularly in education and health, with public sector wages accounting for 41% of total spending. In response, the government initiated pension reforms and targeted pay scale imbalances to enhance productivity and fiscal flexibility.
Innovations in Financial Systems
Trade developments included modest growth in banana and citrus exports, while sugar exports faced shipment timing issues. Nonetheless, sugar farmers benefitted from record payments due to improved global prices and strategic investments. Domestic imports rose by 9.2% compared to 2023, reflecting increased demand for machinery and transport equipment.
Citizen perspectives on the economy were mixed. While the government reported easing inflation, many Belizeans cited rising costs for groceries and basic services. Consumer confidence, as measured by the Statistical Institute of Belize, declined in August due to concerns over durable goods and future economic stability.
$5,000 Reward Offered for Information on Hotchandani Arson Case
A 22-year-old construction worker from Sandhill, Manuel Anthony Moralez, has been arrested and charged with three counts of arson following an incident in which three vehicles belonging to the Hotchandani family were set on fire. The vehicles, parked on Princess Margaret Drive, were torched in the early hours of Sunday, December 22, 2024.
According to ACP Hilberto Romero, “Upon their arrival, they saw three vehicles engulfed in flames—an Escalade, an Audi, and a Chevy Silverado pickup truck. The fire department was called, and the fire was extinguished.”
The arsonists arrived by boat, but their actions were captured on surveillance footage, leading police to identify Moralez as a suspect. Authorities are still searching for the other two individuals involved. “Investigations show that three persons came to the area, poured a flammable substance on the vehicles, and lit them on fire,” Romero stated.
The total value of the vehicles is almost half a million dollars, with two fully insured and one with third-party insurance. Since the incident, a reward of $5,000 is being offered for information leading to the capture of the remaining suspects.
Police have not established a motive for the attack, and the investigation is ongoing.