BELIZE CITY – A violent ambush on Euphrates Avenue has left a 25-year-old man hospitalized and local authorities searching for answers. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, January 16th, 2026, when Justin Gentle was targeted by two masked assailants while walking through the area.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, officers on patrol were first alerted to the crime by the sound of gunfire at approximately 8:30 PM. Shortly thereafter, the victim himself arrived at Precinct One police station seeking medical assistance after sustaining gunshot wounds.
The investigation reveals that two unidentified males wearing hoodies and face coverings opened fire on Gentle, striking him multiple times before fleeing the scene. Police have collected substantial surveillance footage from the area which has provided investigators with actionable intelligence regarding the perpetrators and their escape.
Following emergency treatment at the scene, Gentle was transported to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where he remains in stable condition. The extent of his cooperation with investigators remains unclear at this time, according to official statements.
This shooting marks another concerning incident in a series of recent criminal activities that have troubled Belize City residents, coming on the heels of another reported case where a suspect escaped custody after robbing tourists.