by Kristen Ku
BELIZE CITY, Mon. May 22, 2023
It’s been almost a week since the discovery of the body of 19-year-old Imari Galvez rocked the Belmopan community, and since then additional information about the circumstances of her death has been revealed.
An official autopsy report has stated that the cause of Galvez’s death was strangulation, which has left room for speculation regarding the gunshot wound that, according to initial reports, had been observed on Galvez.
In an interview with Love News, Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams made it clear that investigators now believe that Galvez was murdered by someone she knew and with whom she had a close relationship.
Despite preliminary reports that the victim was out at a nightclub on the night of her disappearance, it is now known that she was at home on the night when she went missing.
Williams further stated that he believes that Galvez’s family might know more than they are currently sharing, and urged them, along with anyone else with additional relevant information, to cooperate fully with the investigation.
In regards to Galvez’s boyfriend, popular football player Woodrow West, who had been sought out as a person of interest and detained for questioning along with Kareem James, Williams has acknowledged that sufficient evidence has not been gathered to make an arrest. Both men have since been released from custody, and further investigations are underway as police continue to identify other male figures who may have had a close affiliation with Galvez.
In the meantime, the Belmopan community took the time to remember Galvez and condemn the violence that led to her death.
In a press release issued by the Belmopan City Council, Mayor Sharon Palacio states, “My councilors and I, along with the Belmopan City Council, extend heartfelt condolences to Ms. Imari’s family and condemn violence against women. As we mourn her passing and beg the Almighty for strength and fortitude, we call on our Police Department to ensure justice… I ask that we reach out to all our families and institutions to pray for peace and justice. There is no place for violence in our society.”
Imani’s body was laid to rest on May 19, providing a space for family, friends, and community members to grieve together. An evening vigil was also organized on May 22, lighting up the night in honor of her memory.