Inmate Shot During Escape Attempt

An inmate at the Belize Central Prison was shot while attempting to escape this morning, according to police.

Police reported that at around 9:20 am, an officer began inmate recreation by opening cells. Shortly after, 30-year-old inmate Nyrere Parchue was spotted in a restricted area behind the building near a tower. The tower guard gave several verbal warnings for him to stop and return. Police say Parchue ignored the warnings and jumped into the moat.

Multiple officers fired warning shots while radioing an escape alert. The tower officer then saw Parchue climbing the fence and fired a shot to stop him. Police say Parchue fell and was found with gunshot wounds to his head and neck.

Parchue was brought back inside the compound, stabilised by the prison medical officer, and transported to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Police confirmed he arrived alive.

Parchue was admitted to the prison in July this year for possession of controlled drugs and damage to property. He was scheduled for early release on August 31, with an official release date set for September 20.