Accidents & Disasters
Tourist is bitten by shark while scuba diving
This may be the first known shark attack off the coast of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, an unprecedented incident that left an American male tourist with an injured hand. On Saturday, July 3rd, while on a diving tour in an area outside the barrier reef known as ‘Tackle Box,’ a diver was bit on his left hand by what was described to be a bull shark, although others believe it was a reef shark.
Accidents & Disasters
No signs of alleged crocodile attack in San Pedrito after an exhaustive search
On Wednesday, June 2nd, reports that a person had been snatched by a crocodile in the San Pedrito area mobilized a search and rescue team to the lagoon side of the island. Triple R, Belize Coast Guard, police, ACES Wildlife Rescue, and volunteers scoured the nearby waters and mangroves for the crocodile and the victim. After several hours, the team ended the search for the day without locating the supposed victim or any signs suggesting that a crocodile attacked someone.
Accidents & Disasters
Police release Pedro’s Hotel and Inn arson suspect
Arson is the suspected cause of the fire at Pedro’s Hotel and Inn, which led to the apprehension of a male individual for questioning. The suspect remained in police custody for a couple of days, but according to reliable reports, on Wednesday, May 26th, he was released.
Accidents & Disasters
Morning fire at Pedro’s Hotel and Inn under investigation
A fire, which reportedly started around 5:30AM on Sunday, May 23rd, at Pedro’s Hotel and Inn is currently under investigation by police and the San Pedro Fire Department. No one was hurt in the blaze, but the hotel’s two-story building, housing the restaurant, bar, and laundry area, was destroyed. Other facilities on the property (hotel rooms), including an onsite animal hospital, remained intact.
Accidents & Disasters
Miriam Rodriguez charged for the death of Bianca Reyes
San Mateo resident 27-year-old Miriam Rodriguez is out on bail after she was charged at the San Pedro Magistrate Court for Manslaughter by Negligence in the death of 18-year-old Bianca Reyes. She was also arraigned for Causing Death by Careless Conduct, Driving with Alcohol Concentration, Negligent Wounding and Harm. Rodriguez is expected to return to court on June 24, 2021.
Accidents & Disasters
National Garifuna Council appeals for financial donations to assist St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The NGC shares their solidarity for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines who continue to be affected by the volcano’s eruption and are seeking the assistance of the public for financial contributions. Any contribution can deposit into the National Garifuna Council Scotiabank account number 1939304. Monies collected will then be forwarded to their partners in St. Vincent on behalf of Belize.
Accidents & Disasters
Belize Stands in Solidarity with St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The Government of Belize has pledged a contribution of US$50,000 to the Government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to aid in relief efforts as our CARICOM sister nation continues to endure volcanic activity following the first explosive eruption of the La Soufrière volcano on Friday, April 9, 2021.
Accidents & Disasters
Female tourist dies while scuba diving on Ambergris Caye
A female American tourist identified as 72-year-old Mona Bhatti died on Monday, March 29th, while on a diving tour off San Pedro Town's coast. The deceased, a medical doctor, reportedly felt ill and became unresponsive. By the time she was rushed back to the island for medical attention, she had passed away.