Officer Accused in Hattieville Double Murder Remanded to 2026

Twenty-five-year-old Police Officer Orvin Justin Williams, accused of the brutal killing of his ex-mother-in-law and her twin brother in Hattieville, made his second court appearance today in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Coney Drive.  Williams, the son of a retired police officer, is charged with the double murder of 57-year-old twins Paula Belisle and Paul Esquillano, who were fatally shot on September 15, just weeks after the death of Belisle’s daughter. During today’s brief hearing, his case was adjourned and he was further remanded to the Belize Central Prison until January 12, 2026.  According to police, at about 2:00 p.m. on September 15, reports were received of shots fired along Ysaguirre Boulevard, Hattieville, Belize District. Upon arrival, officers encountered Belize Defence Force personnel transporting Paula Belisle to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 3:11 p.m. Inside the residence, police discovered the body of Paul Esquillano, who also had apparent gunshot injuries. He was later pronounced dead at 5:35 p.m. Scenes of Crime personnel processed the scene and recovered five expended 9mm shells.  Investigators learned that the twins were on the property when a vehicle arrived, the occupant allegedly approached the house and shot both victims, then fled the scene in the same vehicle.  Police tracked down a rental vehicle believed to be connected to the shooting in Belize City. On October 1, Williams of a Jane Usher Boulevard address was first detained during the investigation. Police conducted a video-recorded interview in the presence of his attorney, Leroy Banner, but Williams reportedly refused to answer questions. He was released two days later on October 3 as inquiries continued.  Williams was detained again on October 10, following the discovery of new evidence. Another interview was conducted on October 11, this time with attorney Gilroy Usher present, but police say Williams again declined to cooperate.  Based on witness statements and other investigative material identifying Williams as the shooter, police subsequently charged him with two counts of murder. He was first formally arraigned on October 15.  Williams comes from a family with deep ties to the Belize Police Department. His father is a former officer, and both of his brothers are currently serving members; one a Sergeant and the other an Inspector attached to the Anti-Narcotic Unit.