Nearly 30 Shots Fired Near Primary School in Belize City

Almost 30 shots were fired this morning on Coney Drive, Belize City. A picture of the scene shows dozens of expended shells littered across the busy street.

The shooting incident occurred metres away from Buttonwood Bay Nazarene Primary School while classes were underway.

The target was reputed gang leader Jahreem “32” Staine.

The incident has raised concerns for the safety of children caught so close to gun violence.

News 5 spoke with the school’s principal, who confirmed that the children were safe inside the school compound. She told News 5 that the school has wardens who keep the children safely inside the compound during class sessions. She said parents were immediately informed of their children’s safety and confirmed that classes went on as normal.

Staine escaped without injury.

Just over 2 months ago, Staine and Eric Frazer were charged with attempted murder after the shooting of Jimmy Rojas on May 3. Rojas was accused of murder but later cleared due to lack of evidence. He was working at the corner of Tibruce Street and Croton Lane when a gunman opened fire from a tinted Mercedes. Rojas survived the attack.