Family of Leonard Baltazar Speaking Out to News 5

Just two weeks before Christmas, a family in Dangriga is grappling with the sudden death of 22-year-old Leonard Baltazar. Early Wednesday morning, Baltazar was found dead outside a cabana at the Reef’s End Lodge on Tobacco Caye.

Around 3:00 a.m., Dangriga police were alerted after resort workers discovered a man lying face down and unresponsive near a cabana. The workers moved him to a safer location and attempted to revive him, but he showed no signs of life. Reports indicate that two tourists staying at the resort were awakened by noises inside their room. Upon waking, they allegedly found a man rummaging through their personal belongings. A confrontation ensued, leading to a physical struggle. During the altercation, the man was reportedly thrown over the cabana’s balcony and later died.

Baltazar’s uncle, Leo Baltazar, expressed disbelief: “I woke up, surprised, shocked because I just saw him yesterday. Most people saw him yesterday, talking, walking, laughing as usual. So, when my sister came by and told me he had passed away, I was stunned.”

“He’s always laughing, talking, joking around with everyone, popping up to everyone’s birthday party. He lived his life in joy and celebration,” his uncle said.

Known affectionately as “Uzi,” Leonard spent much of his time on the caye, fishing, diving, and harvesting lobster and conch to make a living. “He was doing pretty good,” his uncle noted, reflecting on his nephew’s passion for the sea.

Police investigations continue.