Former Hope Creek Chairman Dies After Workplace Explosion

Elroy Wade, the former chairman of Hope Creek Village, died early Sunday morning while receiving emergency treatment in Guatemala City. He had suffered burns to 60% of his body after a gas tank explosion at his workplace in Silk Grass Village.

The accident happened last Thursday when Wade attempted to fix a malfunctioning butane gas system at the plant, which suddenly burst into flames. Despite intensive medical treatment, his injuries were too severe for him to survive. Wade had recently become engaged on February 19.

Being a long-time supporter of the United Democratic Party (UDP), the party issued a statement mourning his passing, calling him “a dedicated servant of the people” and “a steady, principled voice in local governance.”

On social media, tributes poured in. One user wrote, “Such a humble soul. Gone too soon, Elroy. May the family find comfort in the memory they all shared with him.” Another added, “This is so sad… a man always smiling and willing to help others.” Others expressed concern about the frequency of gas-related incidents in Belize, urging greater safety awareness.