Security Guard Shot, Two Firearms Stolen in Late Night Belize City Attack

Police in Belize City are investigating a late-night shooting that left a security guard injured and resulted in the theft of two firearms.  Reports are that shortly before 10 o’clock last night, authorities received information of shots fired in the Cleghorn Street area. Investigators responded and found 49-year-old security guard Justo Pineda suffering from gunshot wounds.  Initial investigations indicate that Pineda was on duty on the JL’s compound on Douglas Jones Street, sitting inside the security booth, when two armed men approached and opened fire in his direction. Pineda was struck and ran out of the compound seeking safety.  He was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where doctors have listed him in stable condition.  Police say a quick response led to the detention of two male persons within the Precinct One area. Authorities also confirmed that two 9-millimeter pistols assigned to the security booth were stolen during the incident. No signs of forced entry were observed at the booth.  Scenes of Crime personnel processed the area and recovered several expended shells and live rounds.