By Belize Live News Staff: The football communities of San Ignacio, Santa Elena, and Esperanza in Cayo are mourning the sudden death of 56-year-old player Luis ‘Sweets’ Martinez, who collapsed during a five-a-side match on Thursday night and later died.
Martinez had just scored a goal for the San Ignacio-Santa Elena Town Council team during the first half of a match against Hillview, part of the San Ignacio-Santa Elena 5-A-Side Christmas Tournament. The tournament began on Tuesday.
After scoring, Martinez complained of feeling unwell and collapsed near the bench during halftime. He was transported to San Ignacio Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The cause is suspected to be a heart attack.
Martinez’s death has shaken the local football community. San Ignacio-Santa Elena Mayor Earl Trapp said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.”
