Investigation Underway into Gabriel’s Death; BNTU Supports Stella Maris

In the aftermath of Gabriel’s tragic death, the Belize National Teachers Union (B.N.T.U.) has rallied behind Stella Maris School. In a press release, the B.N.T.U. expressed unwavering support for the school’s teachers, pledging to provide the necessary counseling to help them cope with the shock and grief. The union emphasized that this incident does not reflect the true essence of Stella Maris School, which has long been a beacon of hope and education for some of Belize’s most vulnerable children. Despite the current sorrow, the school remains committed to its mission. Meanwhile, an investigation is underway to understand how Gabriel managed to leave the school grounds. Today, the Minister of Education, Francis Fonseca, met with Gabriel’s family and the school’s administration. Preliminary findings suggest that Gabriel exited through the main entrance.

 

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education

“We’re working along with the Belize Police Department as well. The investigating officer is Detective McLaughlin and she joined me this morning at Stell Maris School, where I had an opportunity to meet with Pablo’s mother, his grandmother, and his aunt. I will meet with his father and members of his father’s family later today but we had an opportunity to speak with them, to respond as best as possible to all of their questions and concerns, and to express our full support for them during this very difficult time. I also had an opportunity to of course meet with the principal, members of staff, Pablo’s teacher, a comprehensive investigation is underway. A joint investigation, the ministry along with the Belize Police Department.”

 

Reporter

“Based on the interim report, it seems that he exited the compound from the main entrance.”

 

Francis Fonseca

“It seems that way, but again, I’m saying repeatedly, let’s wait for the final report, the final investigation. The police are looking at other videos, so, that is the preliminary view.”