Thursday, April 25, 2024

Accidents & Disasters

Fires destroy homes in San Pedro; victims need help

Three fires in one week have left families across San Pedro Town without homes and belongings. The first occurred in San Pedrito on Monday, June 19th, with a second fire within the DFC area on Thursday, June 22nd. The third blaze was reported in San Mateo on Saturday, June 24th. Local organizations have helped the fire victims, but more assistance is needed. The fire victims in San Pedrito can be assisted by calling 629-4176, while those from the second fire can contact Mirella Bacab at 628-9628 and 637-2247; or deposits can be made to her Atlantic Bank Account, Mirella Bacab, #211874774. Those affected in San Mateo can be assisted by contacting Leticia Chimilio at 639-0266.

Large trucks in San Pedro Town continue to be an issue for residents

The issue regarding large trucks in downtown San Pedro Town and other parts of the island continues to be a daily concern as many residents voice their discontent, calling on local authorities to take further measures. Over the past few days, some residents have reported traffic accidents involving these large vehicles, fearing that a tragedy may occur if the issue is not addressed. The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) had previously set a schedule for large vehicles (dump and cargo trucks) to alleviate traffic and potential accidents. According to the SPTC, this schedule has not changed; however, those concerned about the traffic problem say regulation needs to be enforced.

Fire leaves family in San Pedrito area homeless

A fire that gutted a home in the San Pedrito area of San Pedro Town on Monday, June 19th, is being investigated as possible arson. The blaze destroyed the structure leaving a family of three homeless and needing assistance. Anyone able and willing to help can call 629-4276. According to neighbours trying to assist the victims, a couple with their young child lost everything and are asking for donations, mainly clothes in the following sizes, XL for women, large for men, and size 7 for children. Donations can be left at Casey's Bar and Grill at the entrance of San Pedrito.

Fatal February boating accident case forwarded to the DPP; mother shares experience

The case on the February 14th boating accident that killed 17-year-old Logan Ceylon Pratt is now before the Director of Public Prosecutions (DDP) office. Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero told the media they await directives on whether charges will be levied against boat captain Jessie Smith. An official report named Smith as operating the boat that ran over Pratt and her mother, Tamra Pratt, while swimming off the coast of northern Ambergris Caye. Concerned islanders question why authorities did not mention the person who reportedly took Pratt and her mother to that area of the island.

Belize Port Authority concludes investigation on tragic February boating accident on Ambergris Caye

An investigation by the Belize Port Authority into the death of 17-year-old American teenager Logan Ceylon Pratt, who was killed in a boating accident on February 14th, has concluded. The tragedy occurred off the northeast coast of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, where the tourist teenager was hit by a boat.

Caye Caulker fisherman dies after struck by his boat propeller

Police say Castro was fishing on the north channel of Caye Caulker when apparently, he fell overboard and was injured by the propeller. The report said he suffered large cut wounds to his ankle and thigh. Police investigation indicated that Castro managed to climb back into this boat and was assisted by people passing by. He was transported to the Caye Caulker Polyclinic, but according to the police report, he succumbed to the injuries.

Local authorities to encourage water safety signs following fatal boating accident

Following the tragic boating accident on February 14th, which took the life of 17-year-old American teenage tourist Logan Ceylon Pratt, authorities in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, are planning to enforce safety water measures to avoid future tragedies.

Small group of islanders protest for the release of tour guide involved in tragic boat accident

The San Pedro Police continue investigating a boating accident in which an American teenage tourist lost her life. As per a report, the deceased, a 17-year-old female student from Oklahoma, USA, Logan Ceylon Pratt, was run over by a boat captained by tour guide Jesse Smith, 30, on Tuesday, February 14th. Smith was detained as the investigation continues. However, many of his friends and supporters protested in front of the police station on Wednesday, demanding Smith's release and saying he was not at fault and should not be charged.