On August 7, 2026, an active search and rescue mission is progressing in the waters adjacent to Haulover Bridge, a popular crossing located along the Phillip Goldson Highway just a short distance outside Belize City. The emergency operation was launched after a sudden, violent swarm of bees attacked two people—a teenage girl and her elderly father—who were out walking in the area when the incident unfolded.
Early accounts from first responders and family members confirm that the 17 to 18-year-old girl, who is autistic, made the split-second decision to jump into the adjacent river to escape the relentless stings of the attacking bees. That was the last time anyone has seen her. Her elderly father, though injured by the swarm, was able to get out of harm’s way and has already been transported to a local medical facility to receive treatment for his stings.
More than an hour after the attack, the teenager remains unaccounted for, with search teams facing significant obstacles in their effort to locate her. According to on-site emergency officials, the section of the river where the girl entered measures between 30 and 35 feet deep, creating dangerous conditions for divers. Adding to the challenge, the water in the area is extremely murky, which cuts visibility down to nearly zero for rescue teams, according to a lead swimming and rescue expert who spoke to local outlet News 5.
In a show of community support, a growing crowd of local residents has gathered at the scene, offering to lend their time and effort to assist official search teams in any way they can. Authorities have confirmed that the situation remains ongoing, with updates to the search operation expected as more information becomes available.