An employee at the Ministry of Human Development lost her life after her vehicle plunged into the Mopan River last night. Sometime before 6:30pm, 44-year-old Brenda Guerra and her common-law husband, 48-year-old Edwin Panti were heading towards San Jose Succotz when, between miles 72 and 73 on the George Price Highway, Panti reportedly lost control of the vehicle. The Ford Escape drove into the river and immediately started sinking. Reports are that Panti scrambled out of the vehicle and hauled Guerra out of the river. She was unconscious and they were both rushed to the San Ignacio Community Hospital, where Guerra was pronounced dead. Reports also state that Panti's breath had the scent of alcohol, which the police officers noticed. A blood specimen was taken from him to be tested. He is currently detained.
A release from her ministry says, quote, "she has served her community, her country well and will be sadly missed."
