In a devastating turn of events, the body of 35-year-old Hector Mejía, locally known as “Buye,” was recovered from the Mopan River near San José Succotz on Tuesday morning. The discovery was made by village chairman Armando Ventura Cocom under tragic circumstances that have shaken the small community.
According to official accounts, Mejía was last seen alive on Sunday in the neighboring town of Benque Viejo. Chairman Cocom reported that the deceased had been socializing with friends and consuming alcoholic beverages prior to his disappearance. “Before he went missing, he was seen being gathered with some friends and taking some drinks,” Cocom stated in his preliminary account.
The search for Mejía began earnlessly on Monday when Chairman Cocom utilized social media platforms to mobilize community efforts, requesting any information that might aid in locating the missing man. The breakthrough came unexpectedly during Cocom’s routine taxi drive between Benque Viejo and San José Succotz at approximately 8:15 AM on Tuesday, when he spotted a body floating in the river.
The emotional toll on Chairman Cocom has been profound, given his personal relationship with the deceased. The two men had collaborated on various community initiatives, forging a bond beyond their official capacities. “It was very sad. It was heartbreak. I went in tears also,” Cocom expressed, visibly affected by the traumatic discovery.
Mejía’s contributions to community life were highlighted in subsequent remarks, with Cocom emphasizing his recent voluntary work during the village’s cultural celebrations. Described as “very amicable” and “very happy,” Mejía appears to have been a beloved figure whose absence will be deeply felt. “His loss to the community is very big. I don’t even have words to explain,” Cocom added.
Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mejía’s death. While preliminary findings suggest no immediate evidence of foul play, officials have declined to release further details pending completion of forensic examinations and ongoing investigative procedures.