Key Highlights
- Marty Ann Thorne, 65, a Vancouver woman, was found dead outside Rawspa Cabanas in Bullet Tree Falls, Belize.
- The body exhibited several apparent stab wounds according to local authorities.
- Police are investigating and have retrieved images from surveillance cameras for the case.
- Thorne owned the spa and was a well-known figure in the community.
Murder of Vancouver Woman in Belize Sparks Investigation
Belizean authorities reported on Monday that they discovered the body of Marty Ann Thorne, 65, outside Rawspa Cabanas, a small resort located in the western part of the country. The incident occurred at around 8:00 AM local time in Bullet Tree Falls village, which is situated within the Cayo district.
Discovery and Initial Findings
The body was found by a caretaker who arrived just before 7:45 AM to check on Thorne. The caretaker could not locate her inside the home and checked the yard, where he discovered Thorne near the riverside. According to local media reports, the body exhibited several apparent stab wounds.
Investigation and Community Impact
Preliminary investigations have been launched by Belizean police who are examining surveillance footage from a nearby camera. The authorities are actively seeking assistance in identifying any individuals known to Thorne that may be relevant to the murder investigation.
The victim, Marty Ann Thorne, was well-known and respected within her community for owning Rawspa Cabanas, which had become an integral part of the local area’s tourism industry. Her family has expressed their grief over her loss in a statement, highlighting her contributions as a sister, mother, grandmother, and friend to many.
In a message, Thorne’s family stated, “Marty was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and friend to many.
She lived with deep compassion for people and an enduring love for our earth. Marty’s life was defined by kindness, generosity, and her unwavering care for others. Her family and loved ones are devastated by this senseless loss and are working with local authorities as investigations continue.”
Government Response
A Canadian government official stated that they were aware of the death of a Canadian citizen in Belize but declined to provide further details due to privacy concerns. The statement also mentioned that consular offices have been made available for assistance to the family.
The incident has drawn attention from various local and international media outlets, with the community expressing shock and sorrow over Thorne’s untimely death. As the investigation progresses, authorities hope to uncover more information about the circumstances surrounding her death and bring those responsible to justice.
