Arrest Made in Deadly Shooting of Teen in Orange Walk District

Police have made an arrest in connection with the fatal shooting of Noe Batun, the nineteen-year-old laborer from Guinea Grass Village in the Orange Walk District earlier this week.  As previously reported by Love News, Batun was shot late Sunday night at a location known as the Hidden Cool Spot, after what police described as an altercation inside the establishment. He sustained multiple gunshot injuries to the face, neck, and head, and later died despite receiving medical treatment.  Tonight, authorities confirm that a suspect is now in police custody as investigations intensify.  Police Staff Officer ASP Stacy Smith, says the arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the case, as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the deadly shooting.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “As a consequence of the ongoing investigation into the shooting death of Noe Batun which occurred on 22nd March 2026 in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District, police have formally arrested and charged 45 year old Rodel Jesus Cruz, a Belizean farmer of Guinea Grass village for the crime of murder. I can confirm that Mr. Cruz is the holder of a firearm license for a shotgun. The extent of the information that has been disclosed is the extent to which we wish to dispose.”

Initial reports indicate that the shooting may have stemmed from a dispute inside the bar, after which the suspect allegedly left the premises, returned with another individual, and opened fire, fatally injuring Batun.  While one person has been detained, police say they are still pursuing additional leads, including the possible involvement of a second individual.