Police Prepare for Possible Retaliation Following Murder of Gang Boss

Authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Brandon Baptist, who was killed on Friday night at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex in Belize City.

According to Police Commissioner Chester Williams, officers responded to reports of gunfire at the venue and discovered Baptist’s lifeless body. He was transported to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Initial investigations suggest that Baptist was not present at the sporting event earlier in the evening but was called to the stadium after an altercation involving members of the PIV gang. Upon his arrival, he joined members of the BLC gang near the lower bleachers, while PIV affiliates were seated in the upper section.

At some point, Baptist approached the PIV group, leading to a confrontation. During the altercation, reports indicate that he may have brandished a firearm, prompting PIV members to open fire. After being shot, Baptist reportedly continued to struggle before being thrown over the railing of the bleachers. His body was later recovered by police.

In response to the incident, Commissioner Williams, along with senior police officials, met in Belize City on Saturday to implement strategies aimed at preventing potential retaliatory violence. Increased police presence has been deployed in St. Martin’s, an area known for gang-related tensions, with operations expected to continue for an extended period.

Williams also stated that mediation efforts between rival groups have been temporarily suspended. “Tensions are extremely high, and that might result in further escalation of issues,” he explained. “We will allow the police to work, and when we believe that tensions have settled, we will consider bringing them to the mediation table.”

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant as the investigation continues.