?Check out OSACs 2018 Crime and Safety Report on Belize to learn the most up-to-date traveler security information. She said the support she got from other teams was 'overwhelming. My fear is, at some point, occupants will confront a suspect who enters a property and itll get violent. (And Which Parts Should I Visit And/Or Avoid?). Dr. Swank was a well-respected and well-loved colleague who, each and every day, embodied the values that we hold dear. San Pedro Town is the one and only town on the popular Caribbean island of Ambergris Caye, Belize. "At 8 a.m. yesterday, Anne went to the Mopan River to do her yoga practice," said Benque Viejo Police Superintendent Daniel Arzu. 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. 1 file(s) 142.81 KB. US national killed in nightclub shooting #Belize 23 year old #LSU nursing student J'Bria Michelle Bowens an Indianapolis IN native lost her life Friday night 30 January 2022 when a gunman opened fire against a person outside Jaguar's nightclub on Ambergris Caye Belize. A year ago, in a remote sugar cane field near the Mexican border, a farmer found the bodies of Drew DeVoursney and his girlfriend Francesca Matus. 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. ANNUAL But the I-Team has found dangers in paradise that you won't see in the travel brochures - including Belize, which has one of the highest murder rates in the world. 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 invites you to share your story with the world. "We offer our sincerest condolences to her family and loved ones on their loss," said a U.S. State Department spokesman in Washington. In May 2018, a gunman shot dead a Texan expat in his popular San Pedro restaurant in the early evening. 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. 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? 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. An American woman disappeared over the weekend while vacationing in Belize, authorities said. The passengers were on the Carnival Vista, which left out of Galveston. Crime Stoppers Belize says WE can be more active in the fight against CRIME! Statistics matter and how statisticsRead More A Few Words About the Costa Rica Murder Rate. By BBN Staff: Belizes tourism sector is beginning to feel the effects of the escalating crime situation as tourists have begun canceling their trips to Belize. 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. The gunmen began shooting at a group of people who were partying at Jaguars nightclub. 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.. "Definitely it hits the entire industry of Belize for tourists," said Karen Pike, Belize Tourism Board. 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. ANNUAL CRIME-COMPARATIVE 2019-2020. And then just this month, a US retiree living in Hopkins was found, although arrests have been made in this case. Alison MacKenzie is pictured in this undated handout photo. Nevis then reportedly walked toward the seaside. By BBN Staff: An American national drowned on Wednesday night at Turneffe Island Resort. Its no secret that Belize City is a cesspool of crime, with gang conflicts and shootings almost daily. The Sticking your head into the sand of one of our beautiful Caribbean beaches is not the best way to go. "A horse riding tour returned in the afternoon and found her personal effects on the deck. This story has been shared 130,601 times. The Belize murder rate is third highest in the world - more than twice the homicide rate of Chicago and higher than any U.S. city. Police told the outlet they believe Graniel was the target because just a day earlier, a gunman reportedly fired shots outside his apartment complex, and one of the rounds penetrated his front door. Corozal District saw an incident last year with the discovery of a local expat couple found strangled in a cane field. 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. "We Tourists in Belize are often victims of theft, but few experience real violence. Wheres the best hospital nearRead More Wheres the Best Hospital Near Me in Central America? All Rights Reserved. Business dealings? Police say the case remains open and investigations continue to solve the double murder. 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. The best thing you can have at home to keep you safe is a big dog. Remember, were only talking about foreigners murdered here. 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 This should be a concern as Belize survives on tourism. The police came with their canine unit, and the scent led them along the river but due to the darkness the search was called off for the night before finding her," Arzu told ABC7 Chicago. In December 2022, Belize dropped all Covid-related travel restrictions. An 18-year old suspect was charged. Results of an autopsy are pending at the Belize City Morgue, local police said. 4:50 pm CST. 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. To date, there has been little released about this double murder or any hope of solving it. WebTwo Americans were killed and five others were injured in a bus accident as they traveled in Belize on Wednesday as part of a Carnival Cruise Line trip. In January 2014, two American citizens were kidnapped at gunpoint from a resort area near the western border with Guatemala. Bowens was apparently struck by gunfire outside a nightclub. According to the National Safety Council's study of census data, the chances of being killed in the air are around 1 out of 205,552, and one in 102 for the car. The transit of drugs, particularly cocaine and precursor chemicals for methamphetamine, has risen. WebA tourist from Arizona has gone missing while on a catamaran tour on Rendezvous Caye in Belize, police there said Wednesday. 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. Both men went into the water to rescue her. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! 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. "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 question is, will they stick? Is Guatemala City Safe? Police say that Swank was killed because he was a witness to the murder of tour guide Mario Graniel. Robberies and assaults have been reported in resort areas. A physical check showed bruises on her neck and lacerations on either side of her head," Arzu said. However, tourists are told to exercise a high degree of caution due to an increasing rate of violent crime throughout the country. CHICAGO (WLS) -- The ABC7 I-Team reports on dangers in paradise and crime threats to tourists following the murder of our ABC7 colleague Anne Swaney three weeks ago. "Due to privacy considerations, we have no further comment at this time.". 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 As far as if its safe to come to Belize, I say yes as long as you keep your eyes open and your wits about you. As already mentioned, the overwhelming majority of violent crime victims in Belize are Belizeans. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. I treat everyone the same, ask for help, and return the favor. Email us at [emailprotected] for more information. Theft of content without permission/payment is punishable by law. Cases of sexual assault against female travelers have also be been reported in that district. U.S. Embassy officials urge visitors to Belize to travel only in groups, only during the day; avoid wearing jewelry or carrying valuables. If he had not been the type of doctor that he was, I probably would not have seen him. 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. Police here do have a fairly high street presence. When you include them with the total number of murders (142 in 2017) in a country with the population of Tampa, Florida, you have one of the highest homicide rates in the world. There has been a noted increase in violent crime targeting tourists since the end of 2013. Investigators said that they were questioning a man who was seen fishing near the crime scene, but he was not considered a prime suspect at this time. There's no need to be concerned about safety on commercial flights. Again, little news about this case or any arrests or convictions so far. Swaney is being remembered as a newsroom leader with a penchant for detail and a passion for getting facts straight. On Feb. 19, rival drug dealers opened fire at Art Beach Tulum, a restaurant on the outskirts of Tulum where an order of sea bass with asparagus risotto and seaweed cream goes for $35. 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'. #BreakingNews #BelizeNews #StannCreekNews The body of Sherris Stringham was found last night by Police Officers near Pomona Village, 4 minors and 1 eighteen year old are said to be in Police Custody. Tourism Review. I would argue you should exercise caution no matter where in the world you travel. Join BBN mailing list for the latest news on Belize. 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. Belize Prime Minister John Briceo confirmed that police have arrested a number of persons in connection with the murder of the American tourist. Our house is secure, with solid windows, doors, locks, outside lights and more. 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. Its been a few years now since I moved to Belize and I think Ive assimilated well into my local community. Please email us your news at [emailprotected]. Like the previous cases mentioned, no leads or convictions, which seems to be the norm. WebThe police spokesperson told ABC News that the investigation is ongoing and nothing has been ruled out. We've received your submission. ", "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. Authorities say its complicated because of the proximity to the Guatemala border. San Pedro has long enjoyed peace and security as a result of strong, disciplined Police presence and solid community support, he said. She apparently had planned to go on a horseback expedition Thursday morning, but when the group came up one animal short, Swaney stayed behind. WebGary 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. However, the Prime Minister emphasized that San Pedro remains a safe place for people to visit. She was talking to another man around 8:30 p.m. in a yard when the mans wife showed up and stabbed her out of jealousy, according to Amandala. His absence leaves a void in our team and in our community. Read more of Garys work on his blog. A Virginia doctor and his tour guide were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize, authorities said. 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.". "At 8:15 a.m. (Friday) the police search found her. Contact us at mrkt[emailprotected]kngblznw.m or call us at 501-601-0315. Theft of content without permission/payment is punishable by law. This site contains occasional affiliate (referral) links to products we trust. Check out how we can all use Crime http://t.co/85asUnyi, Ambergris Today (@ambergrisnews) August 31, 2012. Teresa Hodges, a patient of Swanks for 13 years, told the outlet she was devastated to hear what had happened. He said the attackers used an assault rifle and the intended target had been a local gang leader. WebA Virginia doctor and his tour guide were murdered during a fly-fishing expedition in Belize, authorities said. Dont look wealthy, dont flash cash, dont get too drunk, and so on. However, the citys party scene isnt a wild one like some other parts of the Caribbean. However, New Orleans media outlet nola.com identified her as JBria Bowens, a nursing student a Louisiana State University. The I-Team traveled to Central America after Anne was killed. The man, a Guatemalan national, maintains he was just fishing and was not involved in her death, police said. As of Tuesday night, a person-of-interest had not been identified and no And all Americans are encouraged to register with the state department's Smart Traveler program whenever in a foreign country - a free service that allows for emergency contact. According to Nola.com, the victims name is JBria Bowens, a nursing student a Louisiana State University. This story has been shared 130,601 times. "Things happen, and it's super sad, and you don't want to be that person," said Natalie Shellworth, an American tourist. He said the attackers used an assault rifle and the intended target had been a local gang leader. Posted: Friday, June 28, 2019. The most popular nightclub in town is Jaguars Temple. But our colleague wasn't the only American killed recently in Belize. We often hear I woke up and my computer/phone/purse was missing. ? 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. 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. Our thoughts, prayers and attention are now focused on helping his family navigate this difficult time.. WebThe overwhelming majority of violent crime victims in Belize are Belizeans themselves, but recent years have seen an increase in these types of crimes against tourists and expats. "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. Swank and popular local tour guide Mario Nestle Graniel Jr., also 53, went fly fishing in the San Pedro Town lagoon around 10 a.m. when a dark skiff passed by and someone opened fire on their small boat, local authorities told the San Pedro Sun. 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. At least 125 murders were committed in Belize in 2021. WebBelow find the latest compiled statistical information on the Tourism Industry in Belize. The commander in charge of the Anne Swaney investigation says he received training in the U.S. from the FBI. They had been missing for nearly a week. Web(Statistics from the Belize Police Department) CRIMES COMPARATIVE JANUARY 2022 2023. Who knows the circumstances of these crimes mentioned above. 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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