Gunfire Erupts on Caye Caulker as Suspects Escape by Sea

Gunfire shattered the early morning calm on Caye Caulker on Easter Sunday, after a high-speed police pursuit escalated into a dangerous shootout and a dramatic escape at sea.  Reports are that shortly after 4:00 a.m., two officers from the island’s Quick Response Team were on mobile patrol along Avenida Langosta when they observed a suspicious red LIFAN three-wheeled cargo vehicle. The vehicle, occupied by three masked men, was seen speeding in the direction of the Bowen and Bowen distributor, prompting officers to initiate pursuit.  Within moments, however, the situation turned volatile. As police closed-in to within about twenty feet, one of the masked suspects reportedly produced a firearm and opened fire on the officers. The officers immediately exited their patrol golf cart and took cover, with one officer returning fire as the suspects sped off toward the RCD Wharf.  The chase came to a sudden end at the waterfront, when the driver of the three-wheeler reportedly lost control, sending the vehicle plunging into the sea. Despite the crash, the suspects managed to make a swift getaway, boarding a waiting boat near the Fishermen’s Cooperative and fleeing the area.  While the suspects escaped, police say they left behind critical evidence. A search of the scene led to the recovery of multiple items, including crowbars and other steel implements believed to be burglary tools.  Investigators also retrieved 17 expended shell casings, pointing to the intensity of the exchange of gunfire.  Authorities are now reviewing surveillance footage from along the chase route as they work to identify and apprehend the suspects. Up to news time, no arrests have been made.