Cause of Death Revealed in Mysterious Case of Daniel Cal

The Belize Police Department has confirmed to News Five the cause of death of 26-year-old Daniel Cal. According to the Department, Cal died of “Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, pending histological and toxicological analysis. Other significant conditions contributing to his death included chronic alcoholism.”

The post-mortem examination, conducted on Monday, September 16, is still pending further histological and toxicological analysis to fully determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Caal, who died shortly after being in police custody in Belmopan, was detained on September 6 for possession of a stolen motorcycle. While in lockup, he began experiencing seizures and was taken to the Western Regional Hospital for treatment. He was later released back into police custody, only to suffer more seizures, leading to a second hospital visit. Caal passed away on Thursday after being released from detention, leaving his family searching for answers.

An investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances of his mysterious death. Last week, Minister of Home Affairs, Kareem Musa, addressed the concerns raised by Caal’s family, who are questioning whether he may have been mistreated while in custody. Musa acknowledged that there is speculation about a possible head injury, but emphasised that the police have reported the injury likely resulted from a seizure, not external force. He assured that further enquiries, including a review of Caal’s medical treatment, are ongoing, and has asked the National Forensic Science Service (NFSS) to expedite the results to provide the family with resolution.