2025 - Channel 5 Belize

Pilot of Hijacked Plane Speaks Out: “A Second Chance at Life”

Howell Grange, the pilot of the hijacked domestic Tropic Air plane on Thursday, April 17, issued a statement this morning expressing deep gratitude for a “second chance at life.”

On Thursday morning, 49-year-old U.S. military veteran Akinyela Sawa Taylor hijacked a Tropic Air Cessna Caravan aircraft, registered V3-HIG, at knifepoint. The flight was en route from Corozal to San Pedro and was carrying 14 passengers and two crew members.

Despite making a safe landing at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) after being hijacked in mid-flight, three passengers, including pilot Grange, were stabbed. Law enforcement, medical, and fire personnel were ready at PGIA when the plane landed. Fitzgerald Brown and Jair (Franchesco) Castañeda and pilot Grange were immediately given medical attention for their injuries. Images and videos from inside the plane show a severely injured Castañeda, while the other passengers huddled at the back of the plane.

A passenger on board the aircraft shot and killed Taylor moments after the plane landed at the PGIA.

In his statement on social media, Grange credited his survival to the quick response of authorities, his family’s support, and divine intervention, stating, “All your prayers, which I believe are the reason I’m still here today.”

Grange also commended Brown and Castañeda’s bravery during the ordeal and wished them a speedy recovery. He said, “To Mr Brown and Jair Castaneda, congratulations on your bravery. I am forever grateful for your help, and I wish you both a smooth and speedy recovery.”

Grange, who was hospitalised in critical condition over the long Easter weekend, remains getting treatment in Belize City. In a statement, he said, “I am able to stay positive and focus on healing from this incident. I thank the Good Lord for giving me a second chance at life, one that I will cherish even more deeply moving forward.”

US Offers $5 Million Reward for MS-13 Gang Leader

The United States has intensified its crackdown on transnational crime by officially designating the violent gang Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). At the centre of the effort is Yulan Adonay Archaga Carías, also known as “Porky” and “Alexander Mendoza,” the gang’s top leader in Honduras, now wanted under terrorism and organised crime charges.

The U.S. government under the Trump administration is offering up to $5 million for information leading to Archaga Carías’s arrest or conviction. He is accused of overseeing MS-13’s brutal operations.

“Archaga Carías is the highest-ranking member of MS-13 in Honduras and is responsible for directing the gang’s criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, money laundering, murder, kidnappings, and other violent crimes involving machine guns,” the US Department of State said in a statement on Monday. “He is also responsible for the gang’s importation of large amounts of cocaine into the United States.”

“This terrorist leader can no longer be allowed to live free,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “If you can contribute information leading to his arrest—come forward now.”

Archaga Carías, 43, remains at large and is listed among the FBI, DEA, and Homeland Security Investigations’ top 10 most wanted fugitives.

Don’t Risk Your Future

Our ties run deep. But U.S. immigration laws are strict – and we want to make sure that you understand that if you try to enter the United States illegally, lie to get a visa, work without legal permission, or remain after your period of authorized stay, you will face serious consequences.

To make America safe, strong, and prosperous, President Trump is ensuring that citizens from all countries follow U.S. immigration laws. Breaking these laws could lead to jail time, deportation, and a ban on obtaining a U.S. visa in the future.

If you know someone who is in the United States illegally, now is the time to tell them to come home to Belize.

Trying to Enter or Remain Illegally Will Get You Caught

Don’t think that you can sneak into the United States or remain there illegally. The truth is that you will be caught. The Trump Administration has strengthened border security and significantly increased the number of illegal aliens being arrested and deported.

U.S. Visa Fraud Has Serious Consequences

The U.S. visa process is the most secure in the world. Cheating the system by using fake documents, lying on your application, or staying after your visa expires is visa fraud. And it’s a serious crime. If you break the law in this way, you may never be allowed to enter the United States again.

The Journey to the U.S. Border is Dangerous

For those considering making the dangerous journey to illegally cross into the United States, understand that your safety – and even your life – are at risk. Criminal groups, cartels, and human traffickers target illegal migrants, subjecting them to violence, extortion, and assault. Many who attempt the journey never make it to their destination.

The United States is working with Belize and other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to stop and return people trying to enter illegally before they even reach the U.S. border. By securing our borders, we are preventing the suffering caused by illegal immigration and protecting American citizens.

President Trump is Holding Everyone Accountable

The U.S. government is also taking action against those who help others enter the country illegally. This includes smugglers, human traffickers and even foreign government officials who allow illegal immigration to continue.

Recently, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy for foreign officials – including immigration, customs, and port authority staff – who fail to help stop illegal immigration. This builds on similar existing restrictions for those in the transportation and tourism industries. Those who threaten U.S. security by facilitating illegal immigration are not welcome in our country.

The Choice is Clear – Follow the Law

The risks of trying to illegally immigrate to the United States far outweigh any potential benefits. You could lose your life, become a victim of criminals, or end up with a record that damages your future and your family’s future.

Illegal entry not only breaks U.S. laws, it also puts your safety and well-being in jeopardy. The penalties are serious: jail time, separation from your family, and permanent bans from re-entering the United States.

Please reach out to your friends or family members who are in the United States illegally. The best thing you can do for them is encourage them to leave now before they are caught.

For everyone, the message is simple: Make the right choice, follow the law, and don’t risk your safety, your family, or your future. Belize is a wonderful place to live. We look forward to seeing you return home.

David Hodge
Chargé d’affaires
U.S. Embassy Belmopan

Teen and 27-Year-Old Arrested for Murder in Punta Gorda

Police have charged two men in connection with the murder of Jeremiah Coc, who was found chopped to death Friday, April 18, in Punta Gorda Town.

A 17-year-old Guatemalan national and 27-year-old Belizean construction worker Axel Goevany Zetino were formally arrested and jointly charged with murder on Monday, April 21.

Coc’s body was discovered in the Indianville area of Punta Gorda around 9:00 a.m. The male victim had multiple chop wounds, including one to the neck.

Family members said in a social media statement, “I am NOT gonna say that my little brother was an angel. However, he didn’t deserve to be chopped up like a piece of wood.”

We apologise for previously publishing an inaccurate photo of the victim. We extend our sincere apologies to the family for any harm and distress this may have caused.

Belize Mourns Death of Pope Francis

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Belize City and Belmopan, along with the Government of Belize, has joined the global Catholic community in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier today on Easter Monday.

In an official statement, the Diocese expressed deep sorrow at the pontiff’s passing, describing him as a shepherd of humility and a powerful advocate for the poor, peace, and the environment.

Rev. Fr. Jordan Gongora, Diocesan Administrator, said in a statement, “We entrust the soul of our beloved Pope Francis to the mercy of God.”

The Diocese also announced a memorial mass in the pope’s honour, to be held in Belize City on Monday, 28 April, at 6:00 p.m. All members of the public are invited to attend and pray for the repose of the late pontiff’s soul.

The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, also released a statement extending condolences to the global Catholic community. Recalling Pope Francis’ 2024 meeting with Prime Minister John Briceño at the Vatican, the government noted the Holy Father’s support for the Church’s developmental work in Belize and his lifelong dedication to compassion, humility, and peace.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and was widely regarded as a reformer and a champion of social justice throughout his papacy.

Pope Francis Dies Aged 88 on Easter Monday

Pope Francis has died aged 88, bringing an end to a historic papacy that challenged tradition, social justice, and global outreach, the Vatican News reported.

The Vatican confirmed that the Pontiff passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. on 21 April 2025 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the news just over two hours later, expressing sorrow and gratitude for a life “dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”

Vatican officials said his body is expected to be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, 23 April, for public viewing. The final arrangements will be confirmed after a meeting of Cardinals on Tuesday.

The late Pope had been battling health issues since February, when he was hospitalised for bronchitis. His condition deteriorated after being diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia on 18 February. He spent over a month at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic before returning to the Vatican in late March to continue his recovery.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became the first Latin American and Jesuit Pope in 2013. He was known for his humility, plain speech and unwavering advocacy for the marginalised, the Vatican News reported. Pope Francis spent over a decade pushing the Church to be more inclusive, open, and focused on social justice.

Belizeans Mourn the Death of Artist Concego

Punta Rock artist Concego, known offstage as Deon Patrick Ogaldez, died three days after a tragic motorcycle accident on Thursday, April 17. The beloved artist was critically injured after being knocked off his motorcycle and was hospitalized at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The well-known artist, producer, songwriter, and musician was recognized for his vibrant performances and contributions to Punta Rock music, both in Garifuna and English/Creole. One of his most popular songs is “Namule.”

On social media, family members confirmed his passing, stating, “It is with heavy hearts that the Castillo,Ogaldez, Nunez family share the passing of a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, friend and musician. He leaves behind a legacy of love, unforgettable melodies, and a family who will forever hold him close in their hearts. Funeral arrangements and details for memorial services will be shared soon. We ask for your prayers, love and privacy as we navigate this unimaginable loss. Rest in peace Concego Ta Leh for your legacy will never end.”

Fans and supporters also expressed their grief online. One user wrote, “RIP my long time friend from you first came out singing I was ur fan ur brother ur buddy Rest in Peace.”

Another added, “was really hoping and praying that God would give you a second chance but he knows best go rest high on the mountain”

Police are still investigating the details of the crash.

Concego is remembered for his musical talent, his dedication to his culture, and the joy he brought to fans across the country.

BDF Officers Welcomed Home After Completing Peacekeeping Mission in Haiti

Two Belize Defence Force officers, Major Ermil Coh and Captain Claudio Quiroz, have returned home after a six-month deployment in Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. The BDF held a welcoming ceremony to honour the officers.

In a statement issued by the BDF, senior officers “warmly welcomed back Major Ermil Coh and Captain Claudio Quiroz from their recent tour with the Multinational Stabilization Support (MSS) mission in Haiti.” The mission is part of an international, CARICOM-backed effort to restore stability in Haiti, where gang violence and political unrest have created a national crisis.

The BDF said, “We recognised the dedication and sacrifices of the returning officers, who played a crucial role in enhancing stability and supporting humanitarian efforts in the region.”

During their six-month tour, Major Coh and Captain Quiroz “were deployed… to assist in various capacities, including community engagement, logistical and operational support, and security initiatives aimed at fostering peace in Haiti.”

The BDF noted, “As Major Coh and Captain Quiroz reintegrate into their daily routines, their commitment to service remains unwavering. We not only celebrated their safe return but also served as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and dedication in international peacekeeping efforts.”

The deployment follows Belize’s active participation in the MSS mission, established under UN Security Council Resolution 2699, with personnel deployed alongside troops from Jamaica, the Bahamas, and other Caribbean nations.

Man Shot in Neck in Punta Gorda

Police are investigating the shooting of a 35-year-old man in Punta Gorda Town on Saturday night.

Initial reports indicate that Derrick Hines was shot in the neck while on Prince Street shortly after 9 p.m. He was initially taken to the Punta Gorda Hospital before being transferred to the Western Regional Hospital for further treatment.

He remains in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing.

Tropic Air Hijack Survivor Breaks Silence

Jair Castaneda, one of three passengers injured during the hijacking of a Tropic Air flight on Thursday, issued his first public statement following his release from hospital on Friday, 18 April.

In a message shared on social media, Castaneda said the country’s “peaceful community was shaken by an unimaginable act of violence and evil.” He thanked the public for their “incredible care, compassion, and support” and added that he continues his recovery at home, surrounded by family.

The plane hijack occurred on Thursday when Akinyela Sawa Taylor, a 49-year-old American citizen and military veteran, stabbed three individuals after hijacking a domestic flight. Taylor was shot and killed by a passenger during the incident.

Taylor had entered Belize on 8 April and was involved in several troubling encounters in the days before the plane incident, including assaulting a police officer and attempting to board a flight without a ticket. Despite these incidents, he was released from custody. How he subsequently boarded the flight remains unclear.

Castaneda asked the public to continue praying for the other two victims, Captain Howell Grange and Fitzgerald Brown, who continue receiving medical attention.

Captain Grange remains in the intensive care unit. His wife, Alene Carrillo Grange, stated on social media on Saturday that Captain Grange suffered major injuries to his right arm, forearm, back, face, right ear, and left forearm. Stab wounds to his ear extended into his mouth, cutting his tongue and causing him to swallow and inhale blood. This led to chemical pneumonia and the need for surgery to repair nerves and wounds on his face, tongue, and limbs. She added that his condition is slowly improving, and he is now speaking a little and is in a “really positive frame of mind.”