A woman from Vancouver was tragically discovered dead at a spa in Belize on Monday morning following a stabbing incident, as confirmed by local authorities. Marty Thorne’s body was found before 8 a.m. at RawSpa, a resort situated near Bullet Tree Village, around 100 kilometers southwest of Belize City and 37 kilometers southwest of Belmopan, the capital of Belize.
The Belize Police Department spokesperson informed CBC News that a caretaker noticed blood in a cabana at RawSpa, leading the police to find Thorne’s body approximately 50 meters away near a river on the property. Presently, one person is in custody in connection with the case, while authorities are seeking two additional suspects. It is suspected that Thorne may have been acquainted with the suspects, and her cellphone was the only item reported missing. The exact motive and cause of death have not been disclosed pending an autopsy.
Thorne had been residing in Belize since her early adulthood and had returned to Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately six weeks ago, she returned to Belize. The authorities have informed Thorne’s two sons, who reside in Vancouver. It was noted that the sons’ father is Belizean.
In response to inquiries, one of Thorne’s sons expressed shock and mentioned that he would consult with the family before agreeing to an interview. Global Affairs Canada acknowledged the passing of a Canadian citizen in Belize and extended condolences to the family. Consular officials are liaising with local authorities for further details and providing support to the family while respecting privacy considerations.