The Ministry of the Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms. Angelita Magaña and her six-year-old son, Tishan Godoy, who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire in the Orange Walk District on October 20, 2025. The incident, suspected to be an act of domestic violence, has left the community in shock and mourning. Angelita, a 35-year-old school employee, and her young son were unable to escape the blaze, which was allegedly set by Francisco Godoy, Angelita’s ex-common-law husband. Godoy is currently under police guard at a hospital, where he is being treated for burn injuries. Two survivors, Miguel Novelo, Angelita’s partner, and her daughter, Shadia Magaña, remain hospitalized with severe burns. The Ministry praised the swift actions of law enforcement in apprehending the suspect and commended the National Fire Service and first responders for their efforts. In its statement, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing fire prevention and community safety measures across Belize. The St. Michael RC School, where Angelita worked and Tishan was a student, expressed profound grief over the loss of their beloved community members. This tragic event has reignited discussions about domestic violence and the urgent need for stronger protective measures.
分类： society
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DNA Testing Comes to Belize: A Single Hair Strand Could Solve a Crime
In a groundbreaking move, Belize is set to transform its criminal justice system with the introduction of the DNA Bill 2025. Approved by the Cabinet on October 2, this legislation aims to establish a National DNA Database, a tool that promises to revolutionize crime investigations, prosecutions, and the identification of missing or unidentified persons. The bill, introduced by Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa, had its first reading in the House of Representatives on October 17. Musa hailed the database as an ‘extremely powerful crime-fighting tool,’ emphasizing its extensive review by local stakeholders to ensure its relevance and suitability for Belize. The National Forensic Science Service will oversee the database, managed by a designated custodian, and will include separate indexes for convicted persons, suspects, crime scenes, missing persons, relatives of missing persons, victims, volunteers, and unidentified deceased persons. The bill mandates strict safeguards to protect individuals’ privacy and dignity, ensuring that DNA samples are collected only with written consent or a court order. Unauthorized access or tampering with the database will be punishable by fines up to $30,000 or imprisonment for three years. The DNA Oversight Committee, comprising eleven members, will oversee the database’s operation, ensuring compliance with the law and maintaining data protection standards. This bill represents a significant step forward for Belize, balancing the need for public safety with the protection of individual rights.
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WEATHER: (12:00 PM, October 20) High surf advisory and small craft warning in effect
A tropical wave is set to influence weather conditions across the region this afternoon, bringing moisture and atmospheric instability. Residents can anticipate predominantly overcast skies accompanied by scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. While moisture levels are projected to diminish overnight, individuals in flood-prone zones, areas susceptible to landslides, and regions with falling rock risks are urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution. Breezy conditions are expected to persist throughout the day. Additionally, a mild concentration of dust haze will traverse the area this afternoon and into the night, prompting those with respiratory sensitivities to take preventive measures to avoid health complications. Maritime conditions will remain challenging over the next 12 to 24 hours, with moderate to rough seas anticipated. Wave heights are forecasted to decrease to approximately 5 feet along the west coast, while open waters along the east coast will maintain waves near 10 feet. Northerly swells and extended wave periods may contribute to ground swells, prompting the issuance of a High Surf Advisory and a Small Craft Warning due to above-normal sea conditions and strong winds. Small craft operators are advised to stay alert and navigate with care, while sea-bathers are strongly discouraged from entering the water.
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Man assaulted and robbed near Fort Road service station
A violent robbery occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning on Fort Road, leaving a man severely injured and robbed of his belongings. The incident took place near Percival’s Service Station at approximately 4:15 a.m., when two assailants reportedly ambushed the victim as he was walking along the road. The attackers physically assaulted the man, stole his mobile phone, and took an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene on foot. Emergency services promptly transported the injured victim to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Despite an extensive search operation by local law enforcement, the suspects remain at large. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure public safety. The community has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. This incident has raised concerns about security in the area, prompting calls for increased police patrols and preventive measures.
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Man Sues Government Over Unpaid Vehicle Sale
A legal battle has emerged as Dylan Simon, a former employee of Hadeed Motors, has filed a lawsuit against the government, alleging unpaid compensation of $135,000 for two vehicles he sold to them. Simon claims he sold a Nissan X-Trail and a pickup truck to the government but faced persistent delays in receiving payment. Despite repeated visits to the Treasury to collect the owed amount, he was met with frustration and inaction. The case, initially filed on November 16, 2022, has experienced multiple postponements but is finally set to be heard today in the High Court. Simon is being represented by attorney Warren Cassell. This lawsuit highlights potential inefficiencies in government procurement processes and raises questions about accountability in public transactions. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar disputes in the future.
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Minister Garcia-Ramirez Named Global Ambassador for Inclusion
The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs in Belize has announced the nomination of Hon. Thea Garcia-Ramirez as the country’s Global Ambassador to the Global Coalition for Inclusion. The nomination was formally presented by Mr. Marshall Nuñez, Vice Chair of Special Olympics Belize, during a courtesy visit to the Minister. This prestigious recognition highlights Minister Garcia-Ramirez’s unwavering dedication to fostering inclusion, equality, and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities across Belize.
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Police Officer Denied Bail After Firearm Conviction
The High Court has denied bail to Karim Warner, a 37-year-old police officer currently serving a one-year prison sentence for firing a gun in public. Justice Stanley John emphasized that the High Court lacks the authority to grant bail in such cases, directing that any bail applications must be submitted to the Court of Appeal. Warner was convicted on October 1 by Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel following an incident on December 3, 2023, near Emerald Cove Resort in Willikies. During the altercation, Warner allegedly fired 12 rounds at a car involved in a dispute over a leased vehicle. Court evidence revealed that Warner blocked the vehicle with his Lexus, ordered the occupants out, and proceeded to fire at the car, causing significant damage to the rear door, trunk, and front wheel. A female passenger testified that she was so terrified during the incident that she urinated on herself. Warner defended his actions as an attempt to protect his property, but the magistrate deemed the use of 12 rounds “highly excessive.” Warner broke down in tears upon receiving the guilty verdict. His case will now proceed to the Court of Appeal for further consideration.
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Schools participation a highlight of La Magéwit Festival
The vibrant community of La Resource in Dennery was awash in royal blue last Friday as the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) celebrated the annual La Magéwit Flower Festival. The event, deeply rooted in Saint Lucian culture, commenced with a solemn church service at St Michael’s Parish Church. Representatives from various La Magéwit groups delivered heartfelt songs and prayers, setting a reverent tone for the festivities. Fr Ignatius Dominic-Savio Cétoute, addressing the congregation, expressed his aspiration for the establishment of Magéwit groups in every community, emphasizing the festival’s unique significance to Saint Lucia. He also lauded educators for fostering student involvement in this cherished tradition. The festival’s origins were traced back to its patron, Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, a 17th-century French nun, adding historical depth to the celebration. The service concluded with a recessional song performed by the Dennery group. Among the attendees were notable dignitaries, including the Ambassador-Designate of Venezuela, Her Excellency Leiff Liubliana Escalona Barrueta, and several Saint Lucian ministers. Post-service, a colorful parade led by La Magéwit groups, including many students, wound through the community before culminating at the La Resource Playing Field. There, societies from across the island showcased their talents, guided by MC George ‘Fish’ Alphonse. Performances, blending traditional dances and songs, paid homage to the La Magéwit flower while playfully rivaling the La Rose festival. Each act concluded with the spirited chant, ‘Viv La Magéwit,’ echoing the community’s pride and joy.
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St. John Vianney Students Support Breast Cancer Awareness
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, students and faculty at St. John Vianney RC School rallied together this October to support breast cancer awareness. Their efforts culminated in a $125 donation to the Belize Cancer Society (BCS), raised through the school’s “Pinktober Casual Day” event. The initiative was spearheaded by Zoila Audinett, a breast cancer survivor and advocate, with the unwavering support of the school’s principal, parents, and staff. Audinett, recognized as one of BCS’s Breast Cancer Awareness Champions in 2016, personally presented the donation to BCS President Kim Simplis Barrow. Barrow expressed profound gratitude, highlighting Audinett’s inspiring journey and leadership. “Zoila’s resilience and dedication in motivating her students and colleagues are a powerful testament to hope and strength,” Barrow remarked. The Belize Cancer Society also commended the school for its role in promoting early detection and providing support to those affected by the disease.
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Siblings and Child Injured in Highway Crash
A devastating accident occurred on the Phillip Goldson Highway on Saturday, October 20, 2025, resulting in injuries to four individuals, including two siblings and a young child. The incident took place at mile 16 around 3:00 PM when a maroon GMC Terrain, driven by 25-year-old Tamron Brooks, veered off the road and collided with a tree. Authorities reported that Brooks lost control of the vehicle while navigating a curve, leading to the crash. Emergency responders arrived to find the vehicle severely damaged and its occupants in need of immediate medical attention. Tamron Brooks sustained knee injuries, while his sister, 20-year-old Tamia Brooks, suffered a deep facial laceration and leg pain. Their relative, 44-year-old Riva Ellis, reported back pain, and her three-year-old granddaughter, Keanie Betancourt, sustained a forehead laceration and a suspected broken arm. All victims were promptly transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) for treatment. The crash has raised concerns about road safety on the Phillip Goldson Highway, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preventive measures.