Police Make Arrest in Latest Murder

Police have charged 27-year-old Benyati Brandon for the murder of 21-year-old Paul Smith Jr. of La Democracia Village. The murder occurred earlier this week. Brandon also faces charges of attempted murder.

Smith, who had recently been released from Belize Central Prison, was shot multiple times in the chest, stomach, and arms in his own neighborhood. Twenty-four-year-old Tyrece Allen, who was with Smith at the time, survived with minor injuries. Both men were taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where Smith later died.

According to family members, the shooting followed an argument between Smith and his girlfriend, after which gunmen ambushed him. Cousin Tamara Gillett said the shots were heard as Smith was attacked.

Smith had a history of run-ins with law enforcement, including previous charges for gun and ammunition offenses, handling stolen goods, attempted murder, and other violent crimes. He had also been acquitted in 2024 of the 2022 murder of Tyreak August.

Family members say the killing may have stemmed from an ongoing feud within the extended family. Gillett claimed there had been previous threats and attacks targeting Smith and other relatives.