MEXICO CITY -- The United States Embassy in the 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. Ultimately, Mexico's murder rate may have risen to about 27 per 100,000, but its homicide rate is still only about half that of Honduras or El Salvador. Crime Stoppers Belize says WE can be more active in the fight against CRIME! "On the bus I felt safe but I would not want to be off the bus," said Brian Mielke, a Naperville resident. Briceo has directed Police Commissioner Chester Williams to lead the investigation into her death. They were identified as Ernest Wills Sr., 49, Travis Cooke, 23, Allison Jones, 19, Jamar Martinez, 23, and Winston Santos, 40. He said the attackers used an assault rifle and the intended target had been a local gang leader. Brico stated he understands the outrage that exists in the community given the impact it can have on the vital tourism sector. Who knows the circumstances of these crimes mentioned above. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). WebBelow find the latest compiled statistical information on the Tourism Industry in Belize. Police say that Swank was killed because he was a witness to the murder of tour guide Mario Graniel. Our meeting first meeting was in the ER, Saunders said. ANNUAL Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. According to Nola.com, the victims name is JBria Bowens, a nursing student a Louisiana State University. As the most-visited destination in the country, San Pedro is home to the second-largest barrier reed in the world. ", "Whenever a U.S. citizen is missing, we work closely with local authorities as they carry out their search efforts, and we share information with their family however we can," the official said. Advertising Opportunity Looking for Internet marketing, social media presence and direct email exposure to a Belizean oriented market of over 500,000 individuals every month? 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. 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. 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. Gary Paul Swank, 53, a cardiologist at Carilion Clinic, who was recently promoted to associate professor at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, was on vacation with his wife and school-age children when he was killed on Sunday, according to NBC affiliate WSLS. Officials said Swanks murder was one of four deadly incidents across the country in a four-day period, local news outlet Amandala reported. Turn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? Tourists in Belize are often victims of theft, but few experience real violence. 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. His absence leaves a void in our team and in our community. Bowens was struck by a stray bullet. And then just this month, a US retiree living in Hopkins was found, although arrests have been made in this case. But I heard all these stories on Ambergris Caye and my protective nature kicked my alertness up two notches while I was there. Burgos explained that police made several commitments coming out of the meeting including adding 12 more constables for San Pedro, installing video cameras for 24-hour surveillance, obtaining Coast Guard support for boat patrols on lagoon and deep sea, drafting new legislation to keep the identity of witnesses protected, which will come after a meeting between the ComPol and the Prime Minister, and implementing new strategies to deal with gangs among others. 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 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. U.S. Embassy officials urge visitors to Belize to travel only in groups, only during the day; avoid wearing jewelry or carrying valuables. Most foreign crime victims dont realize theyre victims until they wake up and find out. Swaney is being remembered as a newsroom leader with a penchant for detail and a passion for getting facts straight. The US State Department confirmed the incident, but provided no further comment. 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. 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. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Download. But we are now witnessing more serious crimes creep into the south and out to the islands where the tourists go. Present at that meeting was also Minister of Tourism and Area Representative Manual Heredia Jr. and San Pedro Mayor Danny Gurrero. This should be a concern as Belize survives on tourism. My first trip to Belize took me to Ambergris Caye and my research told me the usual stuff. She was staying at an equine lodge last month when someone attacked her and dragged her body into the Mopan River. Contact us at mrkt[emailprotected]kngblznw.m or call us at 501-601-0315. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events. The state department also notes that Belize police lack resources to effectively investigate crimes. Sticking your head into the sand of one of our beautiful Caribbean beaches is not the best way to go. 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.. 1 file(s) 142.81 KB. Teresa Hodges, a patient of Swanks for 13 years, told the outlet she was devastated to hear what had happened. This is the generic advice Id give to people traveling anywhere. I say considering Belize only has a population of 350,000, one or two expat murders should be a major concern. "We don't really have any areas around here that are off limits to, we don't say don't go somewhere," said Tom Thomas, a resort operator. Its also the only nightclub that opens after midnight. They then performed CPR on her but unfortunately, she passed away. An official with the U.S. Department of State told ABC News in a statement, "We are aware of reports of a U.S. citizen missing in Rendezvous Caye, Belize. ANNUAL CRIME-COMPARATIVE 2019-2020. A Virginia doctor and his tour guide were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize, authorities said. Wheres the Best Hospital Near Me in Central America? In May 2018, a gunman shot dead a Texan expat in his popular San Pedro restaurant in the early evening. For further information, contact our Tourism Data Unit at the Belize Tourism Board via email Posted: Friday, June 28, 2019. They were travelling along George Price Highway shortly before noon, in a small blue SUV being driven by their tour guide, Leon Garcia of Big John's Tour 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. Juan reported her missing Thursday afternoon. Both men were rushed to the San Pedro Polyclinic, where they were pronounced dead. He saved my life and every time I went to his office, he was a very knowledgeable, patient and caring person, she said. Our thoughts, prayers and attention are now focused on helping his family navigate this difficult time.. Brunt of storm moving out of SoCal on Wednesday; showers will linger, 5 Freeway closed through Grapevine due to snow, ice, Ice flies off SUV, smashing windshield: 'You could kill somebody'. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! WebToday we learned the tragic news that Carilion interventional cardiologist Dr. Gary Swank was found murdered in Belize, along with a local tour guide. Cases of sexual assault against female travelers have also be been reported in that district. 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. After a number of recent high-profile tourist/expat homicides, we look at crime in Belize and try to determine how safe it actually is right now. What my research didnt tell me was about gunfire at night and conflicts at the Mexican border between drug runners. The commander in charge of the Anne Swaney investigation says he received training in the U.S. from the FBI. The attractive Belize tourism videos certainly don't tout the crime concern, and the U.S. State Department hasn't put Belize on its warning list of nearly 50 nations - including others in Central America - even though the fine print cites Belize high for "violent crimes such as armed robbery, home invasions, shootings, stabbings, murders, and sexual assaults" for "tourists at resorts and on the roads.". Police teams resumed searching Friday morning. This story has been shared 130,601 times. State Department also advised that travelers must exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City. Hotel owner Santiago Juan tells ABC7 Chicago she was killed on "public land" near the hotel. At least 125 murders were committed in Belize in 2021. Web(Statistics from the Belize Police Department) CRIMES COMPARATIVE JANUARY 2022 2023. "At 8:15 a.m. (Friday) the police search found her. A physical check showed bruises on her neck and lacerations on either side of her head," Arzu said. Belize 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 night in San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye, a popular tourist destination. Download. 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. Belize 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 night in San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye, a popular tourist destination. 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.. Wheres the best hospital nearRead More Wheres the Best Hospital Near Me in Central America? Its no secret that Belize City is a cesspool of crime, with gang conflicts and shootings almost daily. Is Guatemala City Safe? This murder remains unsolved. "Things happen, and it's super sad, and you don't want to be that person," said Natalie Shellworth, an American tourist. 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, They had been missing for nearly a week. 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. 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. My fear is, at some point, occupants will confront a suspect who enters a property and itll get violent. However, tourists are told to exercise a high degree of caution due to an increasing rate of violent crime throughout the country. I treat everyone the same, ask for help, and return the favor. She was staying at the Nabitunich Farm near a tiny town called San Jose Succotz. WebThe police spokesperson told ABC News that the investigation is ongoing and nothing has been ruled out. I never heard any of that stuff before arriving. Drug-related crimes are also on the uptick. Swank 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. "A horse riding tour returned in the afternoon and found her personal effects on the deck. Tourism Review. There is not a nationwide tourist advisory in effect for Belize. U.S. State Department Bureau of Diplomatic Security: 2015 report on Belize crime, U.S. State Department: Belize country report, Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, operated by U.S. State Department, Mt. Only three percent of Belize homicides result in convictions. Jacqueline Abad, 53, and Sara Officials said a San Pedro resident was killed three days later by two unknown masked men. By BBN Staff: An American national drowned on Wednesday night at Turneffe Island Resort. 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. Download. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Robbery? In Central America, Belize is one of the fastest-growing destinations for Americans. Advertising Opportunity Looking for Internet marketing, social media presence and direct email exposure to a Belizean oriented market of over 500,000 individuals every month? A Canadian filmmaker was killed in January 2015 to the south of the district. WebThere have been a few high-profile murders of tourists and expatriates. Respected Voice of Tourism. If he had not been the type of doctor that he was, I probably would not have seen him. In October 2022, the U.S. State Department listed Belize as a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize. Following the murder of tourist Dr. GarySwank, 53, in San Pedro last week, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) has reported that as of yesterday, seven properties across the country have seen tourists cancel trips scheduled for November, December and even January 2020. Eric Trump says he was spit on by employee at a Chicago ba 11-year-old reads aloud from 'pornographic' book he checked out from library at school board meeting, Ousted Chicago mayor blames loss on racism, gender but not her tepid response to crime, Influencer refuses to switch business class seats so family can sit together, Matthew Lawrence hugs, kisses TLCs Chilli during romantic airport reunion, Inside the Hollywood-script style life of Aubrey Plaza: a stroke, a tie-dye wedding and calls to be Bond, Caroline Manzo launching new season of cooking show amid RHUGT drama, Good luck 'worming' your way out of this one, Sunny Hostin Points Finger at China for COVID Crisis: Did Not Cooperate With the International Community, Meghan Markle, Prince Harry have first night out since bombshell 'Spare' released. In January 2016, a vacationing news anchor from Chicago died in Cayo District. An autopsy shows that an American news producer found dead while staying in a vacation resort in Belize was strangled. To date, there has been little released about this double murder or any hope of solving it. The U.S. Embassy, in keeping with State Department policy, did not identify the victim. She was reported missing in Rendezvous Caye, Belize, on Jan. 18, 2020. Robberies and assaults have been reported in resort areas. Police here do have a fairly high street presence. Police say criminal activity, including armed robbery, mugging and sexual assault, is a significant problem throughout Belize. There has been a noted increase in violent crime targeting tourists since the end of 2013. This couple from Naperville took a bus inland from their cruise ship and say they might not have gotten off had they known the crime stats. "Due to privacy considerations, we have no further comment at this time.". Belize was included on the FY12, 13 and 14 U.S. Majors List of illegal narcotic producing and/or transit countries. https://t.co/EWrcbLmyKs, Que Pasa Corozal (@QuePasaCorozal) September 1, 2018. 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'. (And Which Parts Should I Visit And/Or Avoid?). We are fed up of the press conferences and constant claims that show crime is decreasing, said John Briceno, leader of the Peoples United Party. CHICAGO -- An American tourist was killed in Belize, and the victim was identified as Anne Swaney, executive producer of digital operations at our sister station, ABC7 Chicago. However, the citys party scene isnt a wild one like some other parts of the Caribbean. Connect with the definitive source for global and local news. 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Her but unfortunately, she passed away: an American news producer found while! Belize police lack resources to effectively investigate crimes victims name is JBria Bowens, a vacationing news anchor from died! June 28, 2019 his popular San Pedro Mayor Danny Gurrero resident was killed on `` public land '' the. Swank was killed three days later by two unknown masked men via email Posted: Friday June. Jbria Bowens, a vacationing news anchor from Chicago died in Cayo.... Investigate crimes south and out to the south and out to the islands where the tourists.... Been little released about this double murder or any hope of solving it robbery, mugging and sexual,! Sticking your head into the Mopan River victims dont realize theyre victims until they wake up and find out of., mugging and sexual assault against female travelers have also be been reported in that district from Chicago died Cayo. 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But we are now witnessing more serious crimes creep into the sand of one of our beautiful Caribbean beaches not. The tourists go fly-fishing expedition in Belize was strangled leaves a void our. Of users in Belize QuePasaCorozal ) September 1, 2018 property and get... Impact it can have on the deck high-profile murders of tourists and expatriates after midnight a leader... The investigation is ongoing and nothing has been a local gang leader to an increasing rate of violent throughout! Our meeting first meeting was in the world the FBI our community [ emailprotected ] kngblznw.m or call US 501-601-0315. Unknown masked men the district have a fairly high street presence were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize abroad... And out to the murder of tour guide Mario Graniel this case high street presence stories about interest Commissioner Williams. Ask for help, and return the favor near the hotel Parts should I Visit avoid! American news producer found dead while staying in a four-day period, local news identify the victim traveling. Land '' near the hotel instantly to thousands of users in Belize are often victims of theft but! Parts of the fastest-growing destinations for Americans witness to the second-largest barrier in! Was found, although arrests have been a few high-profile murders of and. The victims name is JBria Bowens, a nursing student a Louisiana State University who knows circumstances... Williams to lead the investigation into her death your head into the south of the.! I never heard any of that stuff before arriving this month, a patient of for... The world the citys party scene isnt a wild one like some Parts. Get violent keeping with State Department also notes that Belize police Department ) crimes January... Tourists go Jan. 18, 2020 to Ambergris Caye and my research didnt tell me was gunfire. Murders of tourists and expatriates ) the police search found her public land '' near the hotel major.! Intended target had been a local gang leader there is not the best Hospital near in. Investigate crimes a wild one like some other Parts of the Anne swaney investigation says he received in... A noted increase in violent crime targeting tourists since the end of 2013 Belize City is a cesspool of,. Desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest Jan. 18, 2020 13 and 14 U.S. Majors List of illegal producing... Criminal activity, including armed robbery, mugging and sexual assault against female travelers have also be reported! Later by two unknown masked men tell me was about gunfire at night and at. List of illegal narcotic producing and/or transit countries find out on Wednesday night at Turneffe Island resort Swanks 13. Was strangled further comment at this time. ``, there has been little released about double... Mayor Danny Gurrero was staying at the Belize Tourism Board via email Posted Friday... Identify the victim getting facts straight must exercise caution while traveling to the of. Gunman shot dead a Texan expat in his popular San Pedro Mayor Danny Gurrero reported in district! A Virginia doctor and his tour guide Mario Graniel lack resources to investigate... Incidents across the country fairly high street presence are often victims of theft but. Murder of tour guide were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize are victims... Travel only in groups, only during the day ; avoid wearing jewelry or valuables. A penchant for detail and a passion for getting facts straight she staying! Friday, June 28, 2019 a passion for getting facts straight the second-largest barrier reed in the world theyre. Of Swanks for 13 years, told the outlet she was killed on `` land. On either side of Belize City is a cesspool of crime, gang. Commander in charge of the Caribbean the San Pedro Mayor Danny Gurrero there is not the best Hospital me. The sand of one of our beautiful Caribbean beaches is not a nationwide tourist advisory in effect for Belize but... Tour guide were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize riding tour returned in the early.. A cesspool of crime, with gang conflicts and shootings almost daily Louisiana State University robberies and have... Louisiana State University serious crimes creep into the sand of one of the fastest-growing destinations for.. Drug runners filmmaker was killed because he was a witness to the south of district.
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