Belize City was shaken by a brutal murder on Thursday night. Carlos Avelar, a sixty-one-year-old mechanic, was tragically gunned down on Coney Drive around 8:15 p.m. Police arrived swiftly after receiving a report and discovered Avelar’s lifeless body. Witnesses recounted that just minutes before, two men on a motorcycle approached Avelar. One of them pulled out a gun and fired multiple shots, fatally wounding him. Avelar was rushed to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Authorities are now delving into this horrific attack, determined to find justice for Avelar and provide answers to his grieving family.
Category: Breaking News
Two Men to Stand Trial for the Murder of “Bobo Youth” Elwin Lewis
Two men accused of the March 2024 murder of Elwin Lewis, also known as “Bobo Youth,” are back behind bars after being ordered to stand trial. Travis Herbert and Robert Taylor appeared in court this morning, where a Senior Magistrate committed them to stand trial at the June session of the High Court. The prosecutor presented ten statements and several exhibits, including autopsy details and DVDs, which will be used in the trial. The men were given an alibi warning and asked to provide witness names. Herbert named three women, including his sister, as alibi witnesses. Robert Emmanuel Arnold, twenty-one, was also charged with Lewis’s murder, following Herbert’s arraignment in May 2024. Both men were remanded to Belize Central Prison, unable to be granted bail due to the nature of the offense. Arnold inquired about the bail process, and the Senior Magistrate explained that he would need to seek bail through the High Court with an attorney’s assistance. The incident occurred on March twenty-second, 2024, when police responded to a shooting on Antelope Street Extension. They found a grey Lifan motorcycle and expended shells at the scene. Initial investigations revealed that Lewis was shot by two men on another motorcycle. He was taken to K.H.M.H. but later died from his injuries. Police reviewed surveillance footage and identified Herbert as one of the shooters. The investigation continues as the case moves to trial.
UB President Prioritizes Student Safety Amid Sexual Misconduct Investigation
The safety of students is top priority for Doctor Vincent Palacio, President of the University of Belize. Today, we caught up with him in Belmopan to get an update on the investigation into faculty member Doctor Pio Saqui. As previously reported, several students have accused Doctor Saqui of sexual offences. In response, the lecturer has been placed on administrative leave while the university conducts a thorough investigation. Here’s what Doctor Palacio had to say about the situation.
Dr. Vincent Palacio, President, U.B.
“Not much to share, but an investigation is on. Faculty member is on administrative leave. A committee has been established. They are meeting to discuss the case and investigate. That is what is happening.”
Paul Lopez
“What is the phases of investigation based on protocol here?”
Dr. Vincent Palacio
“The committee will decide the process, so more than likely they will interact with the accused, all the accusers, the students and the faculty member. And, they will come up with recommendation.”
Paul Lopez
“What is your understanding about how far back these allegations are dated?”
Dr. Vincent Palacio
“I am not certain. I am not a part of the committee and I would rather not share.”
Paul Lopez
“How do you deal with what can be deemed a black eye for the university?”
Dr. Vincent Palacio
“We are doing all that we can to make sure that we bring justice to whatever the case is, through the committee and their process and at the end of that whatever the recommendations is will be adhered to.”
Paul Lopez
“The commitment that the university has to students, speak about that, where safety is concerned?”
Dr. Vincent Palacio
“It is paramount, extremely important to me, and every chance I get I let the students know that I am here to protect them, I am here for them as the president and all that we do is to ensure they have a safe, positive environment to come to school. We are very proactive in dealing with the issue and providing workshop for the entire faculty on the issue of sexual harassment and we are serious about protecting our student.”
Belizean Media Trained on Responsible Suicide Reporting
Sixteen participants from across Belize took part in a two-day workshop designed to strengthen responsible suicide reporting — a key step in tackling stigma and enhancing mental health awareness nationwide.
The training, hosted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) and the Centre for Mental Health Law and Policy of the Indian Law Society, focused on equipping journalists, editors, influencers, and communications officers with the tools to report on suicide sensitively and ethically.
“Suicide remains a significant public health concern globally, with over 720,000 deaths each year,” said Dr. Karen Roberts, PAHO/WHO Technical Advisor for Mental Health. “The media can either support or harm suicide prevention efforts depending on how stories are told.”
Participants learned how to avoid sensationalism, respect privacy, and report in ways that reduce the risk of copycat behavior. They also discussed strategies for managing their own mental well-being when covering traumatic stories.
“The media holds extraordinary power–the power to shape narratives, challenge stereotypes, spark hope, and create change,” said Dr. Melissa Diaz-Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness of the MoHW. “We are not asking to avoid difficult stories. We are asking to tell these stories responsibly–in a way that honors the dignity of every person affected, and for the media to see themselves as partners in mental health advocacy.
The workshop also laid the groundwork for a national monitoring and evaluation framework for suicide reporting, with upcoming consultations planned among senior journalists, public health officials, and civil society.
Cinema Blunder: Princess Offers Free Re-Screening of Sinners After Wrong File Shown
KAXXFEM Group Ltd, which operated the cinema at Princess Ramada in Belize City, has issued an apology following a ‘technical issue’ that disrupted the screening of the film Sinners recently. The company said that an “incorrect file” was shown during a last-minute addition of the movie to the schedule, which left many patrons disappointed.
The company said the error occurred due to an overwhelming demand for the film, which prompted them to secure a last-minute licence. However, with limited time before the scheduled screening, the wrong version of the movie—one with a lower resolution—was downloaded and shown.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused,” the company said in its statement.
Princess will host a complimentary re-screening of Sinners in its intended high-quality format for all ticket holders. Patrons who attended the Sunday screening are advised to keep their ticket stubs in order to access the upcoming re-screening. Details about the new date and time will be shared soon via the company’s social media channels.
The statement also spoke to ethical standards and respect for intellectual property, stating that it does not engage in or support any activities that violate copyright laws.
LIU Chair Dominique Noralez Stressed Power, Policy, and Youth in Peacebuilding
At the opening of the 2025 symposium hosted by the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU) and the University of Belize, LIU Chair Dominique Noralez delivered a powerful message on the connection between policy, power, and community-based crime intervention. The symposium, themed “Youth in Peacebuilding: Empowering Change Through Restorative Justice”, focuses on equipping young people with the tools and voice to help build safer communities.
Established in 2021 by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the LIU works to address crime and violence—particularly gang-related activity—in Belize City. The unit engages directly with at-risk youth, offering education, skills training, and employment opportunities. The symposium is a key platform for discussing peacebuilding strategies and promoting restorative justice among Belize’s young population.
Noralez opened the panel discussion by outlining how the LIU’s work is guided by major national policy documents, including the Multi-Sectoral Crime Prevention and Control Plan and the PlanBelize Medium-Term Development Strategy.
“The policy offers direction. It tells us what the government priorities are,” Noralez said. “But my personal politics compel me to always talk about power—who has it, who has proximity to it, where it’s concentrated.”
She also emphasised the need to move from policy to action. “We’re talking a bit about program translation—how do we translate this policy direction and priority into our programmes: rehabilitation, reintegration, and restoration?”
Noralez highlighted the role of the national budget in revealing true government priorities. “Budget is one of the most important pieces of document. You need to know what the government spends money on—that’s what it cares about. It’ll sell one thing, but what we spend money on is what we care about. That is your money there at all times, right?”
In addition to national strategies, Noralez referenced regional frameworks like the Declaration on Crime and Violence as a Public Health Crisis, endorsed by CARICOM leaders in 2023 and reaffirmed in 2024. “This is what our CARICOM heads of government put in place… one meeting held in Trinidad and Tobago, one in Guyana. As you know, Trinidad and Tobago has one of the highest [crime rates in] this region,” she said.
Parents Protest at Corozal Methodist School Amid Teacher Sickout and Suspensions
Corozal Methodist School is facing a sickout as two teachers have been placed on administrative leave and eight others have called in sick. This morning, a group of parents gathered in front of the school to demonstrate their support for the teachers on leave and to protest against the principal.
The situation escalated on Tuesday when preschool teachers Julie Castro and Stacy Chi received letters informing them that they were not to return to school until May 27th. The letters accused the teachers of repeatedly disregarding lawful instructions and directives from the school’s administration.
Barbara Acosta, whose grandchild attends the preschool, shared her reasons for supporting the teachers. She believes the teachers have been unfairly treated and wants to stand up for their rights.
Man Shot Dead on Coney Drive, Belize City
Police are investigating the fatal shooting of a 61-year-old mechanic who was gunned down on Thursday night in Belize City. Police report that the victim, Carlos Alvelar, was attacked shortly after 8 p.m. on Coney Drive by two men riding a motorcycle. Reports are that one of the assailants fired several shots at close range before fleeing the scene.
Officers arrived shortly after the incident and found Alvelar lying motionless. He was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
The motive behind the attack has not been determined , and no suspects have been detained.
Masked Men Attempt Armed Robbery in Lord’s Bank
Police are investigating an attempted robbery in Lord’s Bank Village that left a 49-year-old shop owner, Glenford Williams, hospitalised with a gunshot wound.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night as the victim was closing a local small shop. Williams reported that he was ambushed by two masked gunmen, one of whom opened fire at him, causing his injuries.
Reports are that the assailants fled the scene on foot and remain at large.
Williams was taken to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he remains in stable condition.
Police processed the scene and recovered a single 9mm expended shell. No suspects have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
While the Nation Rests, They Serve: Appreciating Essential Workers on May 1st
Labour Day, celebrated on different dates around the world but with the same purpose, is observed in Belize on May 1st to honour the men and women whose daily efforts fuel the nation’s economy and development.
“Today, we recognize and express gratitude for the contributions of our people through the various stages of our national development,” Prime Minister John Briceño said on social media.
Schools and most businesses remain closed as workers enjoy a midweek break. A well-deserved “day off” from the usual work routine serves as a quick reset.
While some Belizeans have voiced on social media that the day off comes ‘abruptly’ within the week just to “get back on the grind” on Friday, many others don’t have the privilege to enjoy.
Essential workers, such as doctors, nurses, medical laboratory technologists, police officers, firefighters, port workers, and other emergency responders, remain on duty. “You are the engine that drives our country forward,” the Leader of the Opposition, Tracy Panton said on her social media.
The contributions of essential workers is a stark reminder that even on a day meant for rest, some must continue to serve to keep the wheels going.So how can one show appreciation for loved ones working today, especially those in essential roles? Here are a few thoughtful ways to care for them:
- Prepare a Special Meal or Get a Snack Box
Get their favourite snacks, a homemade meal, or a refreshing drink for when they are back from their shift. Leave a note of encouragement to brighten their day. - Send a Thoughtful Message or Voice Note
A simple “thinking of you” message or an uplifting voice note during their break can go a long way in boosting their spirits. - Handle Their Errands or Chores
Help take the load off by completing household tasks. - Create a Relaxing Environment at Home
Set up a cosy spot for them to unwind after work. - Deliver a Small Gift or Treat
A care package or coffee delivery shows they’re appreciated and thought of. - Plan a Mini Celebration for After Work
Plan something restful and enjoyable for when they get home. - Advocate for Their Importance
Use your voice on social media to highlight the role your loved one plays and thank them publicly. It reminds them (and others) of their role in the community.
Respect Their Rest Time
Let them sleep in or nap if they’re on night shifts or coming home exhausted.