Murder in Punta Gorda Town: Woman shot dead, partner injured

Posted: Saturday, September 16, 2023. 8:07 am CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Tragedy struck early Saturday morning in Punta Gorda Town when gunfire interrupted the serenity of Far West Street. At approximately 2:10 a.m., police were alerted to a shooting incident near a cement house measuring around 20 feet by 18 feet. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of a female, identified as Dana Francine Gonzalez, a Belizean domestic of the Hollywood Area.

Gonzalez was found in a crouched position behind the building, donned in a rainbow-colored jumper. Preliminary examination revealed a gunshot wound at the center of her back.

Initial reports indicate that shortly before the tragic incident, Gonzalez and her common-law husband, Gustavo Mendez, 22, a Belizean lab technician from the Water Supply Area, had left a wake on Prince Street. As the couple strolled down Far West Street, en route to their home, an unidentified lone gunman ambushed them. Several shots were fired in their direction, fatally injuring Gonzalez. Mendez, who sustained two gunshot wounds to his upper shoulder, was immediately rushed to the Punta Gorda Hospital.

On-site investigations were conducted by CIB personnel. Despite their efforts, no slugs or expended shells were found at the crime scene. It was later learned that due to the severity of his injuries, Mendez was transferred to the Southern Regional Hospital for further treatment.

Sadly, Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the Punta Gorda Hospital at 3:54 a.m. Her body currently resides at the same hospital, awaiting an official post-mortem examination.

As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, the police are urging anyone with information to come forward as they intensify their efforts to find the perpetrator and bring justice to the bereaved family.

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