Dispute Over Woman Linked to Fatal Cotton Tree Village Shooting

Police say that a dispute over a woman is believed to be motive behind the fatal shooting of Guatemalan 31-year-old Otoniel Mateo. Police say Mateo was at his home in Cotton Tree Village when two men came knocking at his door just before two o’clock on Sunday morning. A fight ensued and Mateo was shot to the head and right armpit. Police found him lying face down in his yard, shitless and barefoot, only wearing shorts. Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero says that police are seeking two known suspects in connection with the incident.

ACP Hilberto Romero, Officer Commanding Eastern Division: “Upon their arrival they found the lifeless body of Otonial Mateo, 31 years, with gunshot injuries. Information received is that Mateo was at his home when he heard a knock on his door. He came out and tow persons were there and they were involved in a fight. Thereafter he was shot. His body was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. We are seeking two known suspects for this recent murder at this time. They are known to him. This stemmed out of a dispute over a female.”

Mateo’s brother says he has no knowledge of the situation that led to his brother’s death. He did say he is hoping to get some help with taking Mateo’s body back home.

Brother of the Deceased: “In the first place I don’t know the situation and the problems they have there. I didn’t see anything. I work somewhere else, he works at Santander and until the following day I knew what happened with my brother. Happy, fun, he liked football and enjoyed himself. I don’t know if my brother had any problems with anyone. Yes we are taking the body to Guatemala and need help to take the body.”

Police canvassed the area but did not recover any expended shells from the scene.