By Belize Live News Staff: What began as a missing person’s report has now turned into a murder investigation in San Pablo Village, Orange Walk. The body of James Mendez, a 49-year-old mechanic and car dealer, was discovered on Friday morning at the bottom of a 40-foot well on his farm—days after he disappeared under suspicious circumstances.
Mendez was last seen on May 21st when he left home with a man who had asked for mechanical help. He never returned. According to his son, the man was a stranger, and the family grew concerned when Mendez went silent for more than 24 hours.
His remains were found on Friday in what police believe is a targeted killing. Officers on the scene reported multiple stab wounds to his chest and neck and described the body as being in an advanced state of decomposition, indicating he was likely killed shortly after his disappearance.
Early reports point to possible motives linked to Mendez’s business dealings. Sources claim he may have had unpaid debts or tensions with associates in the car dealing trade. Although police have yet to confirm these theories, they say foul play is evident, and a full investigation is underway.
