By the WBWTN News Team | May 17, 2025
San Pedro , Belize (WBWTN )— Authorities have confirmed that 32-year-old Selvin Ezfera Sealy, who died while in police custody earlier this week, was the victim of a homicide.
A post mortem examination conducted on Friday, May 16, 2025, determined that the cause of death was Restraint Asphyxia, and the manner of death was certified as Homicide. The body was identified by a family member during the examination.
Selvin Sealy had been detained by police on the morning of Monday, May 12, 2025, after exhibiting unusual behavior at a beachfront property in San Pedro Town. Witnesses reported that he climbed a tree, jumped into a swimming pool, and refused to come out before eventually being subdued and detained. Upon arrival at the San Pedro Police Station, Sealy was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead at 7:46 a.m. at the San Pedro Polyclinic.
Scenes of Crime personnel documented abrasions to both of Sealy’s knees, his left shin, foot, toe, and right wrist.
What is Restraint Asphyxia?
Restraint asphyxia occurs when a person’s ability to breathe is severely restricted due to physical restraint, often involving pressure to the chest or neck area. It can happen when someone is held face-down or with excessive force, especially during a struggle. Medical and human rights experts consider this a dangerous and potentially deadly form of restraint. In Sealy’s case, the post mortem findings suggest that the manner in which he was physically restrained led directly to his death.
The confirmation of homicide has raised serious concerns and is expected to intensify scrutiny over the circumstances of Sealy’s detention and treatment. The investigation into his death remains ongoing.