A San Pedro boat captain killed in Belize City has been identified as 26-year-old Zinedine Pinelo. The deadly shooting happened on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Around 12:35 p.m., Pinelo and a companion went to Hunters Lane. They reportedly planned to meet a friend. Then, several men suddenly approached them.
One of the men pulled a gun and opened fire. Pinelo got hit multiple times. He fell to the ground and stopped moving. His friend managed to run away unharmed.
Police arrived shortly after. They found Pinelo lying face-up in an orange shirt and grey pants. Officers quickly called an ambulance.
First responders rushed him to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. However, doctors declared him dead at 2:50 p.m. The hospital has scheduled a postmortem exam.
Meanwhile, Scenes of Crime technicians processed the area. They recovered several spent shell casings from the scene.
The San Pedro boat captain killed in Belize City was well-known in his hometown. Friends and relatives describe him as hardworking and kind. Now, many people in San Pedro are grieving his loss.
Police believe the attack was targeted. However, they have not made any arrests yet. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings.
Authorities also urge the public to help. Even small tips could lead to an arrest. Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers or the nearest station.
Gun violence continues to affect Belizean communities. Therefore, solving this case remains a top priority.
Belizeans want safer neighborhoods. They also want justice for victims like Zinedine Pinelo. As a result, police need strong support from the public.
Every piece of information matters. Together, the community and authorities can help stop the violence.