By the WBWTN News Team | May 22, 2025
Valley Of Peace, Belize (WBWTN) – A grim discovery was made early Thursday morning after a sugar cane truck was found abandoned along a remote stretch of road, its engine still running and signs of violence inside.
The vehicle, a blue Freightliner truck with a yellow trailer, was parked on Valley of Peace Road, just past the junction of Farmers Express Road. When authorities arrived at the scene around 2:30 a.m., they found no driver inside but what they did find raised immediate alarm: broken beer bottles, what appeared to be bloodstains, and a machete.
A search of the surrounding area was launched, leading investigators further along the road. About a mile away, additional signs of a struggle were discovered bloodied clothing and more broken glass scattered across the road.
Shortly after, the body of a man was found lying face-up near the roadside, wearing only light blue underwear. He had sustained what appeared to be multiple chop wounds to the neck, shoulder, and face.
The victim was identified as 32 year old Fredi Michael Ortega, a truck driver.
The circumstances surrounding Ortega’s death remain unclear. Investigators have yet to determine whether the incident was the result of a robbery, personal dispute, or something more complex. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not disclosed any leads.