Authorities in Stann Creek District are conducting a thorough investigation into a tragic traffic incident that resulted in the death of 28-year-old Jesse Palacio from Mullins River Village. The fatal collision occurred on Mullins River Road at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
According to ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer with the local police force, officers responded to alerts regarding an injured individual on the roadway. Upon arrival at the scene, they discovered Palacio with significant facial and bodily injuries alongside a heavily damaged scooter. Emergency medical services promptly transported the critically injured man to Southern Regional Hospital for urgent treatment.
Despite extensive medical intervention, Palacio succumbed to his injuries shortly after 11:00 p.m. the same evening. Police investigators have indicated that determining the precise circumstances leading to the crash remains challenging without conclusive evidence.
The case now hinges on pending toxicology analysis, which investigators believe will provide crucial insights into potential contributing factors. When questioned about possible alcohol involvement, ASP Smith stated that the toxicological examination would need to clarify that aspect of the investigation.
The community awaits further developments as forensic experts work to establish the sequence of events that led to this fatal roadway incident. Police continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses to reconstruct the circumstances surrounding Palacio’s untimely death.