Village Chairman Discovers Friend’s Body in Mopan River

The body of 35‑year‑old Hector Mejía, known locally as “Buye,” was found today in the Mopan River in San José Succotz.

The chairman of San José Succotz, Armando Ventura Cocom, said Mejía was last seen on Sunday in nearby Benque Viejo. “Before he went missing, he was seen being gathered with some friends and taking some drinks,” Cocom explained. “So far that’s what we have gathered.”

On Monday, Cocom issued a public appeal on social media, urging residents to share any information that could help locate him.

On Tuesday morning, around 8:15 am, Cocom was driving his taxi from Benque to San José Succotz when he noticed a body floating in the Mopan River. He described the discovery as heartbreaking, especially because he and Mejía were friends who had worked together on community initiatives. “It was very sad. It was heartbreak. I went in tears also,” he said.

Reflecting on Mejía’s role in the village, Cocom added, “His loss to the community is very big. I don’t even have words to explain. He was a very amicable person, very happy.” He noted that Mejía had recently volunteered for the village’s cultural day and was well known and liked by residents.

Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of his death, and investigations are ongoing.