Posted: Tuesday, March 11, 2025. 9:44 pm CST.
By Aaron Humes: This past Saturday, noted criminal figure Ronlee Petillo and his group were targeted in a drive-by shooting while traveling near Haulover Bridge entering Belize City. According to Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police, a white vehicle followed their vehicle for several miles before the occupants of the white car opened fire, critically injuring one individual.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Joseph Garcia, attempted to escape the assailants and sought refuge and medical attention by racing to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Tragically, he lost consciousness while en route and crashed directly into the hospital’s cafeteria, prompting shock and concern among hospital staff. Chandra Cansino, CEO of the KHMH Authority, confirmed that the severity of the driver’s injuries prevented him from reaching the emergency unit.
“There were serious injuries; they drove straight into the building,” said Cansino. “Thankfully, there were no patients in the cafeteria at the time, but we were concerned for our staff and the integrity of the building. Although we sustained major damage to the wall, the building’s integrity remains intact.”
Garcia ultimately succumbed to his injuries, while Ronlee Petillo is reportedly in stable condition. Commissioner Williams clarified that contrary to some media reports, Petillo did not sustain life-threatening injuries. “He got a graze to the back of his head and a shot in the hand. He is in good spirits,” Williams stated, adding that another victim remains in critical condition at the ICU.
This incident marks another chapter in a troubling pattern of violence involving Petillo, who has faced previous attempts on his life. Williams emphasized that Garcia was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire, highlighting his connection to Petillo as the reason behind his tragic fate: “Mr. Garcia is certainly innocent. He is from Dangriga, and he was assisting Petillo when he became a victim.”
After the incident, the KHMH has ramped up security measures in response to rising gang violence in the area, which will bring more patients to its doors. Cansino noted that police presence at the hospital has increased, with staff trained to prioritize the safety of patients and employees, especially during such critical moments.
As investigations continue, police are working diligently to locate surveillance footage from the area to identify those responsible for the attack. Commissioner Williams assures the public that the police are committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this violent event.
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The post Shooting incident leading to KHMH accident started with ambush on Philip Goldson Highway appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Tuesday, March 11, 2025. 9:44 pm CST. By Aaron Humes: This past Saturday, noted criminal figure Ronlee Petillo and his group were targeted in a
The post Shooting incident leading to KHMH accident started with ambush on Philip Goldson Highway appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
