San Felipe Fire Claims Two More Lives; Community Demands Action on Domestic Violence

The small village of San Felipe in Belize is reeling from a devastating tragedy that has reignited urgent calls for action against domestic violence. On October 22, 2025, a horrific house fire claimed the lives of Angelita Magana, 35, her six-year-old son Tishan Godoy, and her seventeen-year-old daughter Shadia Magana. The blaze, deliberately set by Angelita’s former partner Francisco Godoy, also claimed his life and left two others injured. Godoy, who had recently been released from prison for domestic violence offenses, allegedly doused the home in gasoline before igniting the fire. Angelita had sought a restraining order but was unable to obtain one due to court closures, leaving her vulnerable to the attack. The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and outrage, with communities across Belize rallying to support the Magana family. Schools, including St. Michael R.C. School and Belize High School of Agriculture, have organized fundraisers and awareness campaigns, while the government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on domestic violence. Health Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized the need for collective action to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. The Magana family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support as they prepare to lay their loved ones to rest.