Belize Coast Guard Rescues One Man, Searches for Samuel Chi

The Belize Coast Guard is leading a multi-agency search and rescue operation for Samuel Chi, a resident of Sandhill who disappeared during a fishing trip. Chi and Albert Vacarro departed from Vista Del Mar around 2:00 p.m. on August 3, 2026, heading toward Caye Caulker. When the men failed to return by 7:00 p.m., authorities launched a coordinated effort involving the police, Port Authority, and Fisheries Department.

On August 4, rescuers located Vacarro dehydrated and disoriented in the water southwest of Hicks Caye, approximately 10 miles north of Belize City. He was transported to the Coast Guard Medic Center and then to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Despite social media reports suggesting both men were safe, the Belize Coast Guard confirmed that Samuel Chi remains missing. The agency continues maritime operations to locate him.