By Belize Live News Staff: A violent start to the week in Punta Gorda Town has left a community on edge after a spray of bullets struck two residents outside a popular local establishment. The incident occurred just before midnight on Monday, November 17, turning the area in front of JR Bar into an active crime scene.
Witnesses and police confirm that at 11:30 p.m., gunshots rang out on George Price Street. When the smoke cleared, Ashton Martin, a fisherman from Mahogany Street, and Kelly Stephens, of Front Street, were found injured. Police responded rapidly, transporting both victims to the local hospital. Thankfully, doctors report that both Martin and Stephens remain in stable condition despite their injuries.
The aftermath of the shooting revealed the intensity of the attack. Investigators retrieved 13 expended 9mm shells from the pavement, painting a picture of a reckless assault.
In a significant development, police have detained a member of the nation’s security forces in relation to the crime. Patrick Gomez, identified as a soldier with the Belize Defence Force, was taken into custody shortly after the event. Investigators are currently working to determine the motive behind the shooting.
