Accidental Shooting Claims Life of Hunter’s Friend in Western Belize

A family in Western Belize is mourning the death of their loved one who was accidentally shot and killed over the weekend by his friend. Around 8:30 on Saturday night, police responded to gunshots in the El Pillar area on the outskirts of San Ignacio Town and met 45-year-old Elvis Humes. The Bullet Tree resident told police that he, 28-year-old Jose Manzanero, and John Nolberto were hunting in the area when he walked to the side of the road. Humes claims that while heading back, he saw the eyes of what appeared to be a deer and opened fire with a 16-gauge shotgun. Shortly after, Manzanero was heard shouting before succumbing to a gunshot injury he received. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Hilberto Romero, explained that Humes has since been charged for the shooting that is being labeled as an accident.

Hilberto Romero, Assistant Commissioner of Police: “Police received information that there was a shooting in the El Pilar area of the coyote district. Information was received from Elvis Humes who reported that he was hunting along with two other male persons when he accidentally shot Jose Manzanero, obedient soldier. The person was taken to the hospital and he was pronounced dead on arrival. Information from Elvis Humes is that he accidentally shot the deceased after they had deviated from each other whilst hunting in the area. He was detained and has been charged from manslaughter by negligence, causing death by careless conduct, and for possession of unlicensed firearm.”

Manzanero’s aunt, Maria Martinez, and his mother, Iraida Manzanero, explained to Love News that he was excited to go hunting and says they never imagined he would have not returned from the trip.