Gunman Opens Fire on Police After High-Speed Chase in Belize City

Police officers came under attack early this morning when a gunman reportedly opened fire on them following a high-speed pursuit in Belize City.  According to preliminary information, shortly before two o’clock, officers on mobile patrol attempted to stop a tinted, unlicensed grey Ford Escape. The driver allegedly failed to comply, leading police on a pursuit that ended when the vehicle crashed into a lamppost on Police Street.  Police say three men exited the vehicle, and one of them, reportedly armed with a rifle, fired several shots at the officers. The officers returned fire before the men escaped into nearby bushes.  No injuries or property damage were reported. Checks conducted at local hospitals reportedly confirmed that no gunshot victims had sought treatment.  Investigators recovered three expended .223 shells and three 9-millimetre shells from the scene. Documents found inside the vehicle reportedly identified it as a 2011 Ford Escape registered to a resident of Ladyville. Police have not indicated whether the registered owner was inside the vehicle or had any involvement in the incident.  The suspects remain unidentified as police continue their investigation.