The quiet village of Cotton Tree was thrust into turmoil last Friday night when a single gunshot echoed through the community, striking 32-year-old Ryan Hyde in the head. Despite being rushed first to the Western Regional Hospital and then transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for specialized care, Hyde succumbed to his injuries on Monday night, leaving his family shattered and searching for answers. Hyde’s sister, Christie Bonell, expressed the family’s anguish, recounting how they had hoped for his recovery but were devastated by his sudden passing. The tragedy is compounded by the family’s history of loss, with several relatives previously killed in gang-related violence. Bonell believes her brother was targeted due to the stigma associated with their last name, Hyde, which she says has been unfairly linked to crime and violence. Amid their grief, the family is left to console Hyde’s wife and two young sons, who now face life without their father. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the family awaits the results of the post-mortem to proceed with funeral arrangements. The community mourns the loss of a man described as jovial, loving, and deeply committed to his family.
分类： society
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Four Men Arraigned, Woman’s Case Delayed in High Court
In a significant legal development, four men were arraigned in the High Court before Justice Nigel Pilgrim on October 28, 2025, while the case of a woman accused of a serious sex offense was adjourned. The proceedings unfolded as follows: Ulide Allen and Marquis Conorquie were jointly indicted for the murder of Stanley Jerome Moore and the attempted murder of Joshua Gillett, incidents that occurred in Belize City in June 2024. Both pleaded not guilty and are scheduled to return to court on December 8. Andre Arthurs faces a murder charge for the killing of Mark Usher Jr. in March 2025. Arthurs, who appeared without legal representation, pleaded not guilty and was given until December 8 to organize his legal documents. His next court date is set for December 12. Mark Stevens, accused of attempting to murder Juan Carlos Reyes Pineda in June, was noted by Justice Pilgrim to have complications in his case. Stevens will be assigned legal counsel and is due back in court on November 10. Meanwhile, Shania Welch of Gales Point Manatee, accused of a serious sex offense involving a minor, had her arraignment delayed. Represented by attorney Nazira Myles-Espat, Welch will return to court on November 14. These cases highlight the ongoing legal challenges and the complexities of the judicial process in handling serious criminal offenses.
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Belize Signs Regional Pact to Tackle Domestic Violence
In a significant move to address the escalating issue of domestic violence, Belize has signed the Regional Pact on Legislative and Policy Priorities for Domestic Violence. This landmark agreement was finalized during a two-day summit in Barbados, where senior officials from across the Caribbean convened to strategize on combating this pervasive problem. The pact aims to enhance legislative frameworks and policy measures to better protect victims, particularly women and children, who are disproportionately affected by domestic abuse. Belize is also undertaking a comprehensive review of its Domestic Violence Act to bolster domestic protections. However, the government faces criticism for its perceived inadequacies in addressing the crisis. Prime Minister John Briceño addressed concerns raised by the Special Envoy for Women and Children, who publicly criticized the government’s efforts. Briceño acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of sensitizing law enforcement and strengthening institutional responses to ensure victims receive the support they need. Despite these efforts, questions linger about the effectiveness of current measures and the government’s commitment to eradicating domestic violence.
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Jerome Palma is New SSB CEO
The Social Security Board (SSB) has officially named Jerome Palma as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Palma, who has been serving as Acting CEO since February 2025 and Deputy CEO since October 2024, brings a wealth of expertise in executive leadership, risk management, organizational governance, and investment strategies to the role.
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Sister of Ryan Hyde Says: “We’re Still in the Dark”
The family of Ryan Hyde is grappling with grief and uncertainty following his untimely death. Hyde, a resident of Cotton Tree Village, Cayo, was shot in the head on Friday night and succumbed to his injuries at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City on Monday evening. His sister, Christie Cruz, expressed the family’s anguish and confusion, stating, ‘We’re still in the dark. We’re still trying to figure out the pieces.’ Cruz revealed that social media was the first source of information about the shooting, highlighting the disconnect between public knowledge and family awareness.
Hyde, originally from Roaring Creek, was not at home when the incident occurred. Cruz recounted the emotional rollercoaster of seeing him in the hospital, initially hopeful for his recovery, only to face the devastating news of his passing. ‘It’s really gut-wrenching,’ she said.
Addressing rumors surrounding the motive, Cruz believes her brother was unfairly targeted due to his last name. ‘With that last name, we’re just blatantly branded as bad… gun, drugs. We don’t have the ability to come from under that banner,’ she lamented. Despite public perception, Cruz described Hyde as a loving and kind individual, cherished by his family. He was in the process of opening a meat shop and was the father of two young boys.
The family is now awaiting the results of the police investigation and postmortem as they prepare to lay Hyde to rest.
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Police Announce Temporary Closure of the Willikies Police Station
The Willikies Police Station in Antigua and Barbuda has been temporarily closed effective October 28, 2025, due to significant infrastructural concerns. The decision, made in collaboration with the Police Welfare Association, prioritizes the safety and well-being of the officers stationed there. Until further notice, operations have been relocated to the Parham and Freetown Police Stations. Residents of Willikies, Glanvilles, Seatons, Pares, and surrounding areas can still access police services by contacting the Willikies Police Station at 463-2000 or the Parham Police Station at 463-2060. Individuals on bail who were required to report to Willikies must now report to Parham. To ensure public safety, the Police Administration has increased patrols in the affected areas. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the issue swiftly while maintaining public safety. The community’s cooperation and support during this transition have been acknowledged and appreciated.
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President stelt werkgroep in voor versnelling toerismesector
President Jennifer Simons has officially launched the Presidential Task Force on Tourism Development, marking a significant step toward revitalizing Suriname’s tourism sector. The task force, composed primarily of private sector representatives, has been granted a six-month mandate to identify key priorities and propose solutions to longstanding challenges in the industry. The initiative aims not only to attract more visitors to Suriname but also to generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
During the inauguration, President Simons emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. “The government is committed to working hand-in-hand with businesses to drive sustainable tourism development,” she stated. Rachel Pinas, the task force chairperson, highlighted the urgency of the mission, noting that extensive research has already been conducted. “Our focus now is on analysis, prioritization, and execution. We will start with the ‘low-hanging fruits,’” Pinas explained.
Among the top priorities is the operationalization of the Suriname Tourism Authority (STA), which will be responsible for coordination, regulation, and certification within the sector. Additionally, the task force will advise on the establishment of a national tourism school to enhance workforce development. Karin Refos, a representative from the Suriname Trade and Industry Association (VSB) and a member of the task force, underscored the significance of private sector involvement. She stressed the need for actionable plans to be presented within two months, addressing critical issues such as high airfare costs, visa procedures from French Guiana, the absence of the STA, and the lack of management at key tourist destinations like the Waterkant.
The task force, led by Rachel Pinas, includes notable members such as Daniella Sumter (Vice-Chairperson from the President’s Office), Germaine Oostwijk (SHATA), Michael Noordzee (TCT), Riaz Mohamedjoesoef (ASRA), Dinesh Ramlal, Don Zacharie Ajako, and Dave Boucke. This diverse team is poised to drive impactful changes in Suriname’s tourism landscape.
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Jamaican residents asked to seek refuge in shelters
As Hurricane Melissa, an extremely dangerous and life-threatening storm, approaches Jamaica, authorities are urging vulnerable residents to seek safety in the 42 emergency shelters activated across the St Thomas parish. Kevin McIndoe, CEO of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation, emphasized that while these shelters may not offer the comfort of home, they are essential for survival during the catastrophic storm. The latest advisory, issued at 11:00 a.m. EDT on October 28, warns of widespread infrastructure failure, catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and destructive winds expected to persist across the island. As of 4:00 p.m. on October 27, approximately 600 people had sought refuge in shelters, with numbers anticipated to rise as hurricane-force winds intensify. However, some residents are refusing to relocate, citing poor conditions in the shelters. One resident stated, ‘We’re not leaving here, the conditions are terrible at the shelter, there’s nothing to eat and nowhere to sleep,’ choosing instead to brave the storm at home. Shelly-Ann McCalla, shelter manager at Morant Bay Primary School, acknowledged the challenges, noting that her facility had 60 occupants as of October 28, compared to 86 during Hurricane Beryl last year. McIndoe urged those seeking refuge to bring their own linen and at least two days’ supply of food, as resources are limited. He also requested that charitable donations be coordinated through the St Thomas Municipal Corporation to ensure equitable distribution. Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Eastern Cuba, and the Bahamas, predicting catastrophic flash flooding, landslides, and life-threatening storm surges in these regions.
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CAUGHT: Suspected gas station bomber arrested
In a significant breakthrough, law enforcement authorities have apprehended Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, the prime suspect in the devastating bombing of a Mobil gas station in East Bank Essequibo, Guyana. The arrest followed a swift manhunt initiated after the suspect was identified as the individual responsible for the deadly explosion on Sunday night. The police had earlier offered a GY$5 million reward for information leading to his capture.
According to investigators, Peodomo was arrested at Vergenoegen Side Line Dam, East Bank Essequibo, on Tuesday afternoon. The arrest was made possible through actionable intelligence gathered by the police. A team led by a Superintendent swiftly moved in to detain the suspect, who is now in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
The bombing, which occurred on Sunday night, resulted in the tragic death of a six-year-old girl and left four others injured. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts revealed that Peodomo had attempted to place a bulky plastic bag in a waste disposal bin near a gasoline pump. When the gas station attendant intervened, he relocated the bag near a cooking gas depot and a parked car. Moments later, the bag exploded, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Earlier on Tuesday, police also recovered the clothing Peodomo was wearing during the incident, further strengthening the case against him. The arrest marks a critical step in the investigation, as authorities continue to piece together the events leading up to the attack and determine the suspect’s motives.
The community remains in shock over the incident, with many expressing relief at the swift arrest. Authorities have assured the public that they are committed to ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
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Shallow’s vision: building a stronger, more united North Leeward
North Leeward, spanning from Fitz Hughes to Gordon Yard, is poised for transformation as communities seek sustainable growth, renewed energy, and a stronger voice in national development. At the forefront of this pivotal moment is Dr. Kishore Shallow, a leader whose dedication to service, strategic vision, and passion for people-centered progress make him uniquely suited to drive meaningful change. With a proven track record in sports administration and management, Dr. Shallow brings discipline, effective execution, and tangible results—qualities essential for the region’s future. His leadership promises a North Leeward that is more connected, empowered, and resilient. Dr. Shallow’s vision extends beyond immediate needs, focusing on youth and sports development as pathways to discipline, teamwork, and opportunity. He plans to upgrade facilities, expand training programs, and provide mentorship to young people, ensuring they have the tools to build successful futures. Economically, Dr. Shallow emphasizes agriculture, tourism, and small business creation, aiming to unlock the region’s full potential. Improved infrastructure, community-based projects, and support for local entrepreneurs are central to his strategy for sustainable growth. Education also remains a cornerstone of his vision, with a focus on modern classrooms, mentorship, and lifelong learning opportunities for all residents. Dr. Shallow’s leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, unity, and progress, ensuring that North Leeward moves forward as a stronger, more cohesive community. His approach is not about division or empty promises but about delivering real, lasting progress. With Dr. Shallow at the helm, North Leeward is set to become a model of sustainable development and opportunity.