A severe criminal incident involving suspected arson and robbery has shaken the coastal community of San Pedro Town, Belize. Authorities are actively investigating a destructive fire that erupted Wednesday night at the Crown Game Shop located in the Boca del Rio area, resulting in the hospitalization of a local businessman.
According to official police reports, the incident commenced around 10:07 PM when officers responded to an emergency call concerning a robbery on Laguna Drive. Upon arrival, law enforcement encountered 52-year-old Gerardo Reyes, a Belizean entrepreneur, who reported being alerted by an employee approximately five minutes earlier about smoke emanating from a commercial establishment on his property.
The affected game shop, owned by Reyes but operated by 30-year-old Chinese businessman Wen Huan Huang under lease agreement, became the epicenter of the criminal investigation. Witnesses observed Huang exiting the burning structure before collapsing from apparent smoke inhalation or injuries sustained during the incident. Emergency medical services promptly transported him to a local clinic for initial treatment before transferring him to a specialized medical facility in Belize City for advanced care.
The Belize National Fire Service deployed personnel to the scene who successfully contained and extinguished the blaze, preventing further property damage. While the fire has been suppressed, investigators continue examining the premises to determine the exact origin and cause of the fire, with preliminary evidence suggesting possible arson connected to the reported robbery.
This violent incident has raised concerns among local business owners about security measures in the popular tourist destination. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities pursue leads regarding potential suspects and motives behind this coordinated criminal act.