Belizean authorities are investigating two interconnected homicides in Ladyville that police believe stem from drug-related activities. The victims, identified as Shakeem Ferguson and Elroy Bainton, were fatally shot in separate incidents occurring within approximately thirty minutes of each other on Sunday evening.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero, head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, the sequence began around 5:30 PM when officers responded to reports of gunfire on Joe Lewis Road. At the scene, they discovered Ferguson’s body with multiple gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigation suggests he was specifically targeted as he returned home.
Approximately half an hour later, police were dispatched to Yellow Tail Street following another shooting incident, where they found Bainton deceased. Investigators have established that both men were associated with the same social circle in Ladyville and had been together shortly before the attacks.
Commissioner Romero confirmed that evidence points to drug trade motivations behind both killings, marking a concerning development for the community. While previous incidents in the area hadn’t indicated significant drug-related violence, this double homicide has prompted heightened police attention.
Law enforcement officials are currently searching for two suspects believed to be connected to both murders, along with a vehicle possibly used in the crimes. The police department has announced plans to increase patrols in Ladyville to monitor tensions and prevent further violence.