Police News
Royal Kahal Beach Resort temporarily closed; families of deceased tourists issue statement
As the investigation continues to determine the cause of death of three American tourists at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort on February 22nd, the hotel, located south of downtown San Pedro, has reportedly closed temporarily. The resort’s management is informing incoming guests about the closure and offering refunds for their reservations. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased are calling for a thorough and transparent investigation.
Police News
Samuel Bolaños charged for the shooting death of Matthew Moses
On Friday, March 7th, police announced the formal arrest and charging of 27-year-old Samuel Bolaños from Dangriga Town for the murder of Matthew Jonathan Moses. This tragic incident took place on November 8, 2024, in northern Ambergris Caye, where 46-year-old Moses was shot and killed.
Police News
Police investigate stabbing incident during San Pedro Carnaval
San Pedro Police are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred during the annual carnaval celebration on the island. The victim has been identified as 35-year-old Jerome Mejia, who suffered four stab wounds and was airlifted to Belize City for further medical treatment.
Accidents & Disasters
Jessie Smith acquitted of charges in the death of American teenager Logan Pratt
San Pedro tour guide and footballer Jessie Smith, 33, has been acquitted of the charge of Death by Careless Conduct in connection with the February 2023 boat accident that resulted in the death of 17-year-old American student and tourist Logan Ceylon Pratt. Smith appeared at the High Court on Monday, March 3rd, where a jury of nine members found him not guilty of the charge.
Police News
Cause of death for three American tourists in San Pedro linked to pulmonary edema
A post-mortem examination was conducted on Monday, February 24th, to determine the cause of death for the three young American women found deceased at a beach resort south of San Pedro Town. Gian Sho, the Executive Director of the National Forensic Science Service, confirmed that they died from acute pulmonary edema. This condition is caused by excess fluid in the lungs. The next step is to investigate what led to this condition in the young women. A toxicology test is currently pending, and samples collected from the women will be tested in a laboratory in the United States, with results expected within two weeks.
Accidents & Disasters
American woman dies following a diving tour near Ambergris Caye
Police are investigating the death of an American national, Dawn Michele Rhoades, 55, who fell ill during a scuba diving tour near San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Mrs. Rhoades received Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) while being transported back to San Pedro. She was then taken by ambulance to Ambergris Hope Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Police News
Bethsa Ramirez granted bail after charged with Theft
Thirty-four-year-old Bethsa Ramirez is out on bail after spending a few nights in remand at the Kolbe Foundation Belize Central Prison. This followed a ruling by a judge in the High Court. Ramirez was arraigned at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on a theft charge on Monday, February 17. She is accused of embezzling over half a million dollars while employed by the development company El Diamante Ltd.
Police News
Alvaro Tun acquitted of Elder Arana murder
On February 22, 2025, a court ruling acquitted Alvaro Tun, a 34-year-old resident of San Pedro, of the murder charge related to the death of Elder Arana. This case attracted considerable attention due to its circumstances. The events leading to the trial began on March 5, 2023, when Arana was fatally stabbed during a bar fight in San Pedro. Throughout the legal proceedings, Tun maintained his innocence.
