South African National Found Dead in Corozal

After a neighbor grew concerned over not seeing seventy-five-year-old Marvin Hartin for several days, a wellness check led police to a tragic scene—Hartin’s decomposing body was found inside his home in Consuelo Village, Corozal District. While there were no visible signs of injury, police say the investigation is far from over. Superintendent Stacy Smith shares more on this somber case.

 

ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer

“Police  are investigating the death of seventy-five-year-old South African National, Marvin Hartin, who at the time was residing in Consejo Village, Corozal District. A neighbor of Hartin reported to police that he had not seen him for a few days, which caused him to become concern as that is out of the norm for him. Police visited the residence and, after unsuccessfully trying to communicate with anyone there in the premises were breached, and they were immediately confronted with the odour of decomposition. The body of Hartin was discovered and a preliminary inspection of the body did not disclose any sign of injury. The body of Hartin is now at the National Forensic and Science Services Laboratory, where it awaits a post-mortem examination.”

 

Reporter

“He’s a resident of Belize, he’s living here now?”

 

ASP Stcy Smith

“Yes, he resides in Consejo Village.”

 

Reporter

“And likely it is natural causes of death?”

 

ASP Stacy Smith

“The indication from a superficial inspection of his body does not suggest foul play to be involved. However, the post-mortem examination would give a more conclusive determination of that.”