Landmark Colonial Structure Burnt to the Ground in Belize City

A colonial structure that was run-down and neglected was burnt to the ground early Saturday morning.  The fire reportedly began just after one o’clock at the corner of South and Regent Streets in Belize City.  Initial reports from the authorities say that a security guard saw a man enter the building, and shortly after saw smoke coming from the ground floor.  He added that he saw the man exit the property and walked down Regent Street towards the Supreme Court.  Police have since identified the man they believe was behind the incident.  The structure is one that has been a landmark in the downtown area of Belize City, just across from the Belize Tourism Board’s headquarters.  Our newsroom understands that a nearby structure belonging to the Salvation Army also sustained some fire and water damage.