By the WBWTN News Team | May 12, 2025
San Pedro, Belize (WBWTN) – A 23 year-old man identified as Selvin Sealy of San Pedro died after being taken into police custody this morning, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police, ASP Romero.
Police responded to a report of a male individual who had trespassed onto a private property. Upon arrival, officers observed that the man had climbed a tree on the premises. He was ordered to come down, and according to ASP Romero, a dispute followed between the man and the officers. Once he descended, force was used to subdue him.
Sealy was then taken to the San Pedro Police Station. However, shortly after arriving, he became visibly distressed and lost consciousness. He was quickly transported to the San Pedro Polyclinic, but medical personnel were unable to revive him.
ASP Romero confirmed that during the arrest, the man had to be physically restrained. When asked about any potential medical conditions such as asthma or other respiratory issues, Romero stated that no information was known at the time and that a post-mortem examination will be carried out to establish what led to his death.
The matter is now under investigation by the Professional Standards Branch. Upon completion of the post-mortem and investigation, the case file will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for further guidance.
According to police, Sealy was reportedly behaving violently during the encounter, which led to the use of force. There is no official confirmation at this time as to whether he was under the influence of any substance.
Authorities stated that the man was first seen outside the property before entering and climbing a tree, prompting the police response. The investigation remains ongoing.