Belize: Man kills mother and child in Market Plaza

Belize: Police officials are investigating a devastating shooting tragedy that occurred on Tuesday afternoon, which claimed the lives of two individuals, including a minor. The incident took place at the bustling Market Day Plaza in Belmopan.

According to the reports, a family of four was enjoying ice cream at the plaza when they were suddenly attacked by a gunman. The armed assailant chased down the mother and her two children, firing with apparent intention to kill.

The incident caused huge chaos at the plaza as it was highly crowded at the time when the incident occurred.

The victims have been identified as 8-year-old Megan Petkau Klassen from the Agua Viva area in the Cayo District and 44-year-old Italian housewife Laura Fiorito, also living in the Cayo District. Two other minors, Tristan Lopes, aged 7, and Sarah Lopes, aged 11, sustained injuries but were in a stable condition.

The officials also added that they have detained one male in connection with the incident. The initial reports state that the family was visiting Belize from the Netherlands.

The suspect, a 59-year-old Haitian business owner from Belmopan City, Robert Joseph, was visiting the market with his son, following which he saw Salvatore Lopes, along with his common-law partner Laura Fiorito and their three children, who were playing nearby.

Without any warning, the suspect drew a black 9mm pistol and opened fire, intending to target Salvatore Lopes but tragically hitting Laura Fiorito instead. Joseph continued firing, due to which Sarah and Tristan Lopes got injured while Megan Petkau Klassen died.

The suspect was immediately caught on the scene with his firearm, following which the police officials launched an investigation into the incident to determine the reason behind this intended killing.

The police suspect that Robert had some earlier issues with the common law husband of the victim, which is why he tried to shoot at him but missed the shot.