Students’ Union Demands Review After San Felipe Murders

The National Students’ Union of Belize is also adding their voice to the ongoing conversation on domestic violence in the country. The union issued a statement today referring to the murder of Angelita Magana and her two children as a reflection of systemic failure. The union is calling for a full review of all domestic violence cases where protection was sought but not granted and where bail was granted, despite a history of abuse. We heard from President of the NSUB, Tomas Serrut, who says members are grieving the loss of Shadia Magana, a tertiary student.

 

Tomas Serrut, President, National Students’ Union of Belize

“Initial reports confirmed that Angelita and Tishan died in the blaze that destroyed their home. Sadly, it has now been confirmed that Shadia, who was hospitalized in critical condition, passed away yesterday morning. According to police investigations, the fire was deliberately set by Angelita’s ex common law husband, Francisco Godoy, a man with a known history of abuse and violence. He later died from the burns he sustained in the same attack. This tragedy should never have happened. The National Students Union of Belize (NSUB) condemns this atrocity in the strongest possible terms. As young people, as students, and as members of a society that values each human life, we say with one voice, enough is enough. The loss of Angelita, Tishan, and Shadia is not just a crime. It is a reflection of systemic failure, a failure of our protections, our institutions, and our collective responsibility to safeguard the vulnerable. We call on our leaders and institutions to act immediately. There must be a full review of all domestic violence cases where protection was sought but not granted, and where bail was given despite a history of abuse. The system must be audited to identify where it failed Angelita and her children, particularly in the process of obtaining restraining orders and ensuring proper police response. Emergency mechanisms such as rapid response units, twenty-four-hour hotlines, accessible shelters, and trained officers must be strengthened across the country. Accountability must also be enforced. When authorities neglect their duty to protect, lives are lost, and that neglect must have consequences. To our communities and our fellow students, silence protects the abuser, not the victim. If you see something, say something. If someone you know expresses fear or signals danger, take it seriously. Check in, reach out, and believe survivors.”