The tranquil town of Punta Gorda, Belize, remains gripped by fear and uncertainty following a devastating double homicide that occurred on Queen Street during the evening of February 7, 2026. The fatal shooting claimed the lives of 24-year-old Luis Barillas and 43-year-old Derrick Arnold in what authorities describe as a targeted ambush.
According to police reports, the tragedy unfolded approximately at 8:10 PM when both victims were socializing at Barillas’ residential property. The assailant, described as a dark-complexioned male wearing a hoodie, approached the zinc gate entrance and immediately opened fire upon being greeted by Arnold. Preliminary investigations indicate Arnold sustained critical gunshot wounds to his chest, thigh, and back, while Barillas suffered fatal injuries to his head and face.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that three individuals have been detained in connection with the investigation, with criminal charges expected to be filed based on developing investigative leads. The case has taken additional complexity due to Barillas’ known criminal background, including previous involvement in a 2023 Christmas Day murder case, and his status as a person of interest in the ongoing disappearance investigation of Canadian national Alfred Pleil.
Family members of both victims expressed profound shock and confusion regarding the circumstances. Rozeta Arnold, sister of the deceased Derrick Arnold, described her brother as a ‘free-spirited’ individual who may have been ‘at the wrong place at the wrong time.’ She acknowledged his occasional troublesome behavior while emphasizing the inexplicable nature of his violent death.
Law enforcement officials revealed that anti-drug operations had previously been conducted in proximity to Barillas’ residence, resulting in significant drug and firearm seizures. While investigators are exploring multiple motives, including potential connections to drug-related activities and the missing Canadian case, no definitive links have been established between the homicide and Pleil’s disappearance at this stage.
The community remains on edge as police continue their investigation into this brutal crime that has left families grieving and residents questioning their safety in this typically peaceful town.