An American man identified as Akinyela Sawa Taylor, reportedly a former U.S. military veteran and teacher, was shot and killed in Belize on Thursday after hijacking a small Tropic Air domestic flight at knifepoint. The incident left three others injured and raised serious questions about airport security at smaller Belizean airstrips.
Knife-Wielding Hijacker Disrupts Domestic Belize Flight
According to Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams, Taylor pulled out a knife mid-flight, demanding that the plane divert and take him out of the country. The aircraft, originally scheduled to fly from Corozal near the Mexican border to San Pedro island, was forced to circle over Belize’s airspace as fuel levels dropped dangerously low.
Chaos on Board: Passengers Injured, Gunfire Erupts
Taylor reportedly stabbed the pilot and two passengers during the ordeal. As the plane made an emergency landing outside Belize City, one of the injured passengers—who was legally armed—shot Taylor in self-defense. Both the armed passenger and Taylor were rushed to the hospital, where Taylor later died from his injuries.
Security Concerns Spark Investigation
Authorities are now investigating how Taylor managed to board the aircraft with a weapon, noting that smaller regional airstrips in Belize often lack thorough security screening. Police revealed that Taylor had been previously denied entry into Belize just days before the attack, but somehow made his way back to Corozal undetected.
Who Was Akinyela Sawa Taylor?
Preliminary reports describe Taylor as a U.S. citizen with a background in education and athletics. Online records show he was formerly employed as a football coach at McCluer North High School in Florissant, Missouri. However, a school spokesperson confirmed he no longer works there.
U.S. Embassy and Belize Police Investigating Motive
As of now, Taylor’s motive remains unclear. The U.S. Embassy in Belize is assisting local authorities in gathering more information. Luke Martin, the embassy’s public affairs officer, told reporters that there are currently no official details available regarding Taylor’s background or what may have triggered the violent hijacking.
