Photo: Kaver Smith, RTA victim

by Kristen Ku

SAN IGNACIO, Cayo District, Mon. June 19, 2023

An early morning accident yesterday led to the hospitalization of three individuals, one of whom is in critical condition. The incident took place on Buena Vista Street, in San Ignacio.

According to reports, a white four-door vehicle hit three pedestrians around 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 17. Thereafter, two ambulances promptly responded to the incident and transported the victims to the San Ignacio Community Hospital for immediate medical attention.

One of the victims, identified as Kaver Smith, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan. His condition remains critical, and there is an outpouring of support on social media, with friends and family rallying in prayer for his recovery.

The driver of the vehicle involved in the accident has been identified as Wayne Henry. Police detained Henry, and the vehicle was impounded as part of the ongoing investigation.

While recounting the incident, Henry claimed to have seen the three individuals but said he was unable to avoid hitting them. As the investigation proceeds, San Ignacio police have served him a notice of intended prosecution. “A urine sample was obtained, and the matter is under investigation at this time,” stated ACP Hilberto Romero.

This incident has sparked outrage within the community, especially among the victims’ families. Many are demanding justice, particularly for Smith, who is currently battling for his life in the ICU. A relative of Smith expressed their frustration on social media, lamenting the seeming freedom Henry is enjoying despite the severity of his actions.

“This young man right here has my nephew, Kaver, in the ICU in Belize City fighting for his life, and the worst part is that the police from San Ignacio are letting this young man walk around free as if he did nothing wrong. He did not only knock down one person, he knocked down three persons. I demand justice!” she wrote.

The San Ignacio police have yet to release an official report regarding this tragic incident. They have, however, reassured the public and the victims’ families that they are conducting a thorough investigation.