Businessman Returns to Court in Brother-in-Law Murder Case

Bernard Talbert, a 51-year-old businessman from Lords Bank, made his second appearance in court yesterday in connection with the murder of his brother-in-law, 52-year-old Stephen Henry Jorgenson.  Talbert, who allegedly fled Belize for the United States after the killing and was later extradited, appeared before a Magistrate in Court on the single charge of murder. The incident occurred on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Jorgenson’s home on Rio Bravo Crescent, Belize City.  The accused was first arraigned on the charge on Monday, September 8, 2025. During yesterday’s hearing, his case was adjourned to January 13, 2026, when the court is expected to provide him with disclosure in the matter.  According to police reports, the fatal shooting occurred at approximately 8:45 p.m. on March 3, 2024. Police personnel responding to a call found the body of Stephen Henry Jorgenson, a taxi driver, inside the lower flat of his home, lying face up in a pool of blood.  Initial investigations revealed the details leading up to the shooting that shows that an argument ensued between Talbert and his sister, reportedly over a land dispute.  The sister reported that Talbert allegedly pulled out a firearm from his waistband and pointed it in her and the children’s direction.  As the sister pushed the gun away from their direction, Jorgenson came out of the bedroom and approached Talbert. Talbert then allegedly pointed the gun at his brother-in-law and fired a single shot, fatally injuring him.  Talbert immediately fled the scene in his black vehicle. At the location, a nine-millimeter AGUILA brand expended shell was reportedly recovered by the Scenes of Crime technician.