Drugs? Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. Local Mario Graniel and tourist Dr. Gary Swank were shot to death while on a fly-fishing tour on the lagoon side of Ambergris Caye. They were identified as Ernest Wills Sr., 49, Travis Cooke, 23, Allison Jones, 19, Jamar Martinez, 23, and Winston Santos, 40. So far, six months into 2019, there are 70 murders and that is not counting those people still missing and those whose remains have yet to be identified, Briceno said. What about now? Prospect police investigating crash involving school bus, bike, Chicago mayoral race down to Vallas, Johnson in runoff election, Ice flies off SUV, smashing windshield: 'You could kill somebody'. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mrkt[emailprotected]kngblznw.m or call us at 501-601-0315. WebThe police spokesperson told ABC News that the investigation is ongoing and nothing has been ruled out. The tourist was not the intended target, it just so happened she was in the line of fire between these two factions, Williams told 7 News Belize. I was stunned, I was shocked, I had tears because I was so excited about seeing him at my next visit., The State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize, urging increased caution as violent crime such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas.. Please email us your news at [emailprotected]. Swanks colleagues and patients grieved the sudden loss of a seasoned, caring doctor. Breaking Belize News invites you to share your story with the world. This stretch of winter into Spring Break is a popular time for Chicagoans to head south. WebA tourist from Arizona has gone missing while on a catamaran tour on Rendezvous Caye in Belize, police there said Wednesday. He said the attackers used an assault rifle and the intended target had been a local gang leader. Criminals often operate in groups and target persons traveling alone. CHICAGO (WLS) -- The ABC7 I-Team reports on They then performed CPR on her but unfortunately, she passed away. ', Death toll keeps rising in Greece's deadliest train crash, Brunt of storm moving out of SoCal, light showers on tap Wednesday, AccuWeather: AM showers before a mild afternoon. "Definitely it hits the entire industry of Belize for tourists," said Karen Pike, Belize Tourism Board. In a statement, Briceo described Bowens death as a random act of terrorism. In October 2022, the U.S. State Department listed Belize as a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize. Graniels body was discovered inside the boat with multiple apparent gunshot wounds, and Swanks body was found floating face-down in the lagoon, about 30 feet away from the boat also with what appeared to be gunshot wounds. Download. San Pedro Town is the one and only town on the popular Caribbean island of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Join BBN mailing list for the latest news on Belize. Breaking Belize News is able to offer a marketing package that uses internet, social media and email to reach over 500,000 Belizean-centric potential customers each month. Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams told local news outlets that Belize officers arrested two men, charging them with murder in the killing that occurred Friday night in San Pedro town. Hotel owner Santiago Juan tells ABC7 Chicago she was killed on "public land" near the hotel. https://t.co/DOPUhxwZrt, Ambergris Today (@ambergrisnews) September 5, 2018. Bowens was apparently struck by gunfire outside a nightclub. Juan reported her missing Thursday afternoon. San Pedro has long enjoyed peace and security as a result of strong, disciplined Police presence and solid community support, he said. The police spokesperson told ABC News that the investigation is ongoing and nothing has been ruled out. (And Which Parts Should I Visit And/Or Avoid?). In January 2014, two American citizens were kidnapped at gunpoint from a resort area near the western border with Guatemala. Download. An expat in Placencia was also strangled in December 2017, found next to her rental vehicle. Drug-related crimes are also on the uptick. ANNUAL CRIME-COMPARATIVE 2019-2020. Chicago Mayor Lightfoot ousted; Vallas, Johnson in runoff, King asks Duke and Duchess of Sussex to move out of Frogmore so Prince Andrew can move in, Biden Mocks Marjorie Taylor Greene With 1 Simple Hand Gesture, A Nebraska high-school cheerleader competed on her own after the rest of her squad quit. She apparently had planned to go on a horseback expedition Thursday morning, but when the group came up one animal short, Swaney stayed behind. The tourist was not the intended target, it just so happened she was in the line of fire between these two factions, Williams told 7 News Belize. In this part of the world, the most popular places for Americans and Chicagoans are also the most remote and the most difficult to get to, especially after a night of rain. I treat everyone the same, ask for help, and return the favor. This story has been shared 130,601 times. San Pedro nightlife offers restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Alison MacKenzie was reported missing in Rendezvous Caye, Belize, on Jan. 18, 2020. The American tourist was taken to the Dr Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Last year, a record quarter-million flew off to their rich beaches, offshore diving spots and inland jungles, teeming with wildlife along great hiking trails and meandering rivers. The gunmen began shooting at a group of people who were partying at Jaguars nightclub. The incident could have far-reaching implications on the tourism sector, which when taken in the larger context of the services sector, helps account for over 50 percent of the countrys Gross Domestic Product. Also, Belize is no longer requiring testing for entry, regardless of vaccination status. This site contains occasional affiliate (referral) links to products we trust. In Central America, Belize is one of the fastest-growing destinations for Americans. Web(Statistics from the Belize Police Department) CRIMES COMPARATIVE JANUARY 2022 2023. WebFormer Belize City Councilor and Justice of the Peace Rafael Chavez dies at 71 February 26, 2023 Crime Teenage woman held up in Belize City, loses jewelry and other valuables The most popular nightclub in town is Jaguars Temple. MEXICO CITY (AP) The United States Embassy in the tiny Central American nation of Belize on Sunday confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen Respected Voice of Tourism. Jerry Espat was killed in October in the waters off Ambergris Caye, while taximan Leo Skeen was killed at his home. And then just this month, a US retiree living in Hopkins was found, although arrests have been made in this case. Belize was included on the FY12, 13 and 14 U.S. Majors List of illegal narcotic producing and/or transit countries. Sticking your head into the sand of one of our beautiful Caribbean beaches is not the best way to go. Our thoughts, prayers and attention are now focused on helping his family navigate this difficult time.. WebBelize Police Commissioner Chester Williams told local outlet 7 News Belize on Saturday that two men had been arrested and charged with murder in the killing that occurred Friday Authorities said Swaney was taken to San Ignacio Hospital in Belize, where she was pronounced dead. Police say that Swank was killed because he was a witness to the murder of tour guide Mario Graniel. It was the emerald hills of western Belize that attracted ABC7 web producer Anne Swaney. John Burgos, Executive Director of the BTIA spoke with Breaking Belize News (BBN) today, explaining that he attended a public meeting in San Pedro hosted by the Commissioner of Police. Swaney, 39, was an avid world traveler and on a vacation in the Cayo District of western Belize, a popular destination for American adventure travelers and horse enthusiasts. Join BBN mailing list for the latest news on Belize. By BBN Staff: An American national drowned on Wednesday night at Turneffe Island Resort. And Rhonda Saunders, a 10-year patient of Swanks, told FOX affiliate WFXR that she had 99 percent blockage in a blood vessel that the doctor had stented saving her life as well. Advertise with the mt vtd nw t n Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. To date, there has been little released about this double murder or any hope of solving it. Gary Paul Swank, 53, a cardiologist at Carilion Clinic, was shot dead Sunday as officials say the tourist destination has become paralyzed by crime, Belize Live News reported. He has called on residents of San Pedro to stand with police as they hunt for criminals in the community. Alison MacKenzie is pictured in this undated handout photo. She was already dead on arrival. Tourism Review Online Magazine 1 / 2020. WebThe United States Embassy in the Central American nation of Belize on Sunday confirmed the death of an American tourist there and said it was closely monitoring the local investigation, Remember, were only talking about foreigners murdered here. Cases of sexual assault against female travelers have also be been reported in that district. In the Cayo District, armed robberies occasionally occur near the western border with Guatemala, especially near Caracol to the south. An American woman disappeared over the weekend while vacationing in Belize, authorities said. One of the primary industries in the town is tourism, most notably scuba diving. Its been a few years now since I moved to Belize and I think Ive assimilated well into my local community. Present at that meeting was also Minister of Tourism and Area Representative Manual Heredia Jr. and San Pedro Mayor Danny Gurrero. pic.twitter.com/94qBPRi2F4, Belize.com (@Belizean) December 31, 2022. All Rights Reserved. All Rights Reserved. 1 file(s) 146.10 KB. As of Tuesday night, a person-of-interest had not been identified and no one had been detained for questioning. ANNUAL CRIME-COMPARATIVE 2020-2021. A physical check showed bruises on her neck and lacerations on either side of her head," Arzu said. Email us at [emailprotected] for more information. Police teams resumed searching Friday morning. 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved, Denver boy, 8, suffers horrific injuries in fall from horse during Belize vacation, Tropical Storm Lisa expected to become season's next hurricane as it approaches Central America, 'Godfather' director Francis Ford Coppola's island lists for $2.2M, Shark surprise: Mysterious Arctic species found lurking in Caribbean. 4:50 pm CST. "She was a trailblazer in the digital news space and was one of our first website employees," said John H. Idler, president and general manager of ABC7 Chicago. WebUS tourist killed by gunfire in Belize The United States Embassy in the tiny Central American nation of Belize on Sunday confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen there and said it was closely monitoring the local investigation By The Associated Press January 1, 2023, 3:15 PM ANNUAL WebBelize is a very corrupt and violent country and I don't mean just the drug gangs in Belize City which clearly makeup most of the murder. Last fall, a man from Washington D.C was stabbed to death in his seaside hotel room; another U.S. national was attacked and killed on his farm; and a Canadian film producer was stabbed in the doorway of the home where he was staying. Turn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? Wheres the best hospital nearRead More Wheres the Best Hospital Near Me in Central America? 1 file(s) 142.47 KB. This is the generic advice Id give to people traveling anywhere. WebUS tourist killed by gunfire in Belize. The entire Carilion family extends Violence in Cancun, for example, is quite common an attack on a bar there on Feb. 16 killed five people but most of the violence occurs far from the tourist zones along the beach. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events. Pretty much every visitor toRead More Is Guatemala City Safe? The United States Embassy in the Central American nation of Belize on Sunday confirmed the death of an American tourist there and said it was closely monitoring the local investigation, Associated Press reported. According to the document, the country urges increased caution due to high levels of violent crime, such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas.. However, the citys party scene isnt a wild one like some other parts of the Caribbean. The US State Department confirmed the incident, but provided no further comment. "What we say to all tourists is that you should be situationally aware, be cautious and just be aware of your surroundings," Pike said. Im very serious about me and my wifes personal safety. He saved my life and every time I went to his office, he was a very knowledgeable, patient and caring person, she said. Thanks for contacting us. Anne Swaney from Chicago was that person - her life taken as she did yoga by herself on this riverside platform 1,700 miles from home; something no one could have predicted, and only her killer could have prevented. The In May 2018, a gunman shot dead a Texan expat in his popular San Pedro restaurant in the early evening. Its also the only nightclub that opens after midnight. Authorities say its complicated because of the proximity to the Guatemala border. Central America stories, info, news, and opinion coming to you from local and expat writers in Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. According to reports, around 9 pm, American national Stephanie Nevis,34, was drinking at the resort when she was informed that the bar was closing. The tourist was not the intended target, it just so happened she was in the line of fire between these two factions, Williams told 7 News Belize. Columbus-area measles outbreak was the nation's largest in 2022. 2020, BreakingBelizeNews.com. We are heartbroken at his loss. "Anne helped us evolve our business and our newsroom, but most importantly, she was a kind person who was always had a smile and a positive attitude.". Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. U.S. Embassy officials urge visitors to Belize to travel only in groups, only during the day; avoid wearing jewelry or carrying valuables. WebToday we learned the tragic news that Carilion interventional cardiologist Dr. Gary Swank was found murdered in Belize, along with a local tour guide. Business owner Lamont Lipka shot and killed in San Pedro The San Pedro Sun https://t.co/rambnluOZE via @SanPedroSun, The San Pedro Sun (@SanPedroSun) May 14, 2018. PHOTOS: Anne Elizabeth McComb Swaney, 1976-2016. WebThe Belize murder rate is third highest in the world - more than twice the homicide rate of Chicago and higher than any U.S. city. We've received your submission. "It doesn't tell me that we believe this is going to happen again or something we can really do to prevent it," Thomas said. The killings drew international media attention but remain unsolved. An autopsy shows that an American news producer found dead while staying in a vacation resort in Belize was strangled. WebTwo Carnival Cruise Line passengers were killed in a van accident during an independent tour in Belize. The U.S. Embassy, in keeping with State Department policy, did not identify the victim. Lets Talk About What Others Wont Crime In Belize. Theft of content without permission/payment is punishable by law. She was reported missing in Rendezvous Caye, Belize, on Jan. 18, 2020. 1 file(s) 142.81 KB. The ninth murder this week in the country was 47-year-old Yolanda Requea, who was stabbed to death Sunday in San Ignacio. This article contains a link (or links) to Amazon, from which, as an Amazon Associate, this website will earn a small commission if you make any purchases. This looked suspicious, so they went to her cabin, and she wasn't there. Nevis then reportedly walked toward the seaside. WebBelow find the latest compiled statistical information on the Tourism Industry in Belize. Content is copyrighted and requires written permission for reprinting in online or print media. However, the Prime Minister emphasized that San Pedro remains a safe place for people to visit. Swank and his tour guide, Mario Nestle Graniel Jr., 53, were killed during a fly-fishing expedition in the San Pedro Town lagoon five days after a group of five fishermen were shot to death in Swallow Caye. Breaking Belize News invites you to share your story with the world. Again, little news about this case or any arrests or convictions so far. The many Belizeans who are assaulted and the many businesspersons who are held at gunpoint, beaten and their establishment are robbed are a persistent reminder that crime continues to rise.. The rash of violence follows what officials said have been months of deadly crimes in the beach oasis. Download. The club is located in San Pedros Central Park. According to Nola.com, the victims name is JBria Bowens, a nursing student a Louisiana State University. Results of an autopsy are pending at the Belize City Morgue, local police said. Jacqueline Abad, 53, and Sara WebSwank is not the first tourist to be killed in Belize, however his death occurred while on a fly fishing trip at a popular tourist attraction in Belize. Corozal District saw an incident last year with the discovery of a local expat couple found strangled in a cane field. 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