It is one of the most savage killings we have ever reported – and surely one of the worst ever reported in a small village. Twenty-five year old Ronnie Alamilla was shot to death, then burnt almost to ashes, and then chopped to pieces in the fishing village of Sarteneja. Police say a bracelet, ring, watch and chain found at the scene of the charred human remains have been positively identified as his possessions.
And while a post mortem to be conducted tomorrow will confirm the identity, police say that the most important piece of the investigation has already snapped into place. An emotional confession given to police by this man, 22 year old Christino Verde has provided key evidence. Verde was the man last seen with Alamilla as they went on a hunting trip.
Through tears, and in front of a Justice of the Peace, he voluntarily confessed to police that he did it. He says that around eight on Tuesday night he and Alamilla went hunting on bicycle. They rode on separate bicycles out to the Verde family farm two miles south of Sarteneja Village. Verde told police that when they arrived at the location, he was armed with a locked and loaded shotgun when they both heard a noise as if something was running in the bushes.
Verde claims Alamilla reached for the weapon to shoot at whatever it was, but Verde says he held onto the gun and it went off while they were both struggling for control. Verde says Alamilla was shot in his abdomen and fell to the ground. Verde said that he tried to help his friend but because they were both on bicycles he could not get him the help and he claims Alamilla died in his arms.
But if that is what really happened what happens next has left police very disturbed. Christino Verde Jr. did not go to alert the police or tell any of the victim’s family members. Instead, he told police that in shock and confusion, he then decided to burn Ronnie Alamilla’s body. Using some type of fuel, he then set the body on fire. When there was nothing left but charred remains, that is when Verde then used a pick axe to chop up the human bones to pieces.
But while Christino Verde may have given a tearful confession and appeared remorseful Ronnie Alamilla’s family is not buying his story. The victim’s family has told law enforcement officers that their loved one was a homebody and not a hunter. They believe their loved one was viciously killed.
Corozal Police told 7NEWS that they are investigating the case and examining both reports made to them but more than likely Christino Verde Jr. will be charged with murder.
