Elderly Farmer Hospitalized After Stabbing in Orange Walk

Police in Orange Walk have one person detained following a violent stabbing incident that left an elderly farmer hospitalized.  Investigators say the incident unfolded on Tuesday morning, February 24, shortly after ten o’clock, when police visited the Northern Regional Hospital based on information received.  Upon arrival, officers observed eighty-eight-year-old Gabriel Tecka, a Belizean farmer of Yo Creek Village, suffering from a stab wound to the body.  Initial investigations revealed that around nine a.m., Tecka was working on a farm in the Orange Walk District along with another man identified only as “Negro Lopez.” Police say the suspect allegedly approached Tecka and accused him of eating his groceries.  The situation reportedly escalated when the accused picked up a farm fork and stabbed the elderly farmer, causing serious injuries.  Despite the attack, Tecka managed to remove the fork from his chest and walked toward the main road, where he was assisted by others and transported to the Northern Regional Hospital. He has since received treatment and remains admitted in stable condition.  Police say one person is currently detained as investigations into the incident continue.  Authorities are expected to determine formal charges as the investigation progresses.