A Belize City resident’s New Year celebration transformed into a devastating tragedy when his home was engulfed by flames in what appears to be a suspected arson attack. The incident occurred around 9:00 PM on Sunday in Belama Phase Four, where thirty-two-year-old Damian Sanchez received urgent alerts from neighbors about smoke billowing from his property.
Upon rushing to the scene, Sanchez discovered neighbors gathered along the roadside while emergency responders battled the blaze. Although firefighters managed to contain the destruction, the interior of the home suffered catastrophic damage with most belongings completely charred. Remarkably, the exterior structure remained largely intact.
Sanchez expressed gratitude that no injuries occurred but revealed disturbing details suggesting deliberate foul play. Multiple witnesses reported seeing an unidentified individual in a white pickup truck behaving suspiciously near the property shortly before the fire erupted. The suspect reportedly fled when noticed by neighbors.
Further examination revealed evidence supporting the arson theory, including a forcibly cracked window shutter that may have served as the point of entry. Sanchez confirmed there were no electrical faults or live wires that could have accidentally ignited the blaze.
Despite facing overwhelming loss, the resilient homeowner maintains an optimistic perspective, stating: ‘Fortunately thanks to God, you could just rebuild. At one certain point it could look better than it used to be.’ As authorities continue their investigation into the fire’s origins, Sanchez has begun the arduous process of reconstruction, hoping to transform this catastrophic beginning into a fresh start.