By Belize Live News Staff: A tragic double murder near the Crooked Tree junction on Monday evening has left two prominent Burrell Boom residents dead, with police investigating a possible financial dispute as the motive.
The victims, identified as 37-year-old Felix Martinez, an analyst manager, and his common-law wife, 40-year-old Adelita Gillett, a respected pharmaceutical manager, were discovered lifeless inside a black Chevrolet Equinox SUV parked near Mile 30/31 on the Philip Goldson Highway.
The vehicle was first spotted by a passerby who noticed bullet holes on the driver’s side window. Upon closer inspection, the witness realized the occupants were unresponsive and immediately alerted the authorities.
When police arrived, they found Martinez slumped in the driver’s seat, while Gillett was reclined in the passenger seat. Both had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and investigators recovered several expended shells from the scene.
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams has confirmed that a suspect is in custody and is being interviewed. According to the Commissioner, “This person had some financial issues with the victims, and we are exploring that angle as well as other possibilities.” He also emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting the victims were involved in criminal activities.
The couple, who shared a young child, were well-known and respected in their community. Gillett was praised for her contributions as a pharmacist, and Martinez was an avid sportsman with deep ties to Burrell Boom.
The Belize Police Department is appealing to the public for information that could aid in solving this double murder. Commissioner Williams added, “We urge anyone with information to come forward to assist us in bringing closure to this grieving family.”
As the investigation unfolds, the nation remains in shock over the loss of two beloved individuals whose lives were cut short in a senseless act of violence.
