A high-profile real estate developer from Colorado, Boris Mannsfeld, 56, was found fatally shot in Belize over the weekend, and police suspect it may have been a professional hit carried out by a disgruntled business associate, according to local reports. Mannsfeld’s body was discovered lying face down on the floor of his yard in a luxury villa complex, The Villas at Cocoplum in Maya Beach, on Friday night. He had a bullet wound to the back of his head. The area where he was found is a development he helped build, showcasing his significant contributions to Belize’s real estate landscape. Mannsfeld had moved to Belize permanently in 2006 and established his own development firm, Boris Mannsfeld and Associates, four years later. His work in the country included selling condos, land plots, and other properties, as well as involvement in hotel projects, a concrete company, and a renewable energy company.
Police Commissioner Chester Williams stated that Mannsfeld’s death bears all the hallmarks of a targeted hit, though the exact motive remains unclear. Authorities found a loaded 9mm pistol, Mannsfeld’s wallet, and a spent shell casing near his body, which further suggests the killing was premeditated. Williams also revealed that investigators are examining Mannsfeld’s business dealings to identify potential suspects and motives. One suspect, Frik De Meyere, a former employee of Mannsfeld’s, is currently in custody, though no charges have been filed as of Monday. De Meyere had previously been questioned in connection with the 2023 murder of Ricardo Borja, a businessman who worked for Mannsfeld’s company. Another former employee, Darren Taylor, was killed in 2024, and Williams acknowledged that there may be a connection between these deaths and Mannsfeld’s murder.
Before his death, Borja had accused De Meyere of being involved in a land fraud scheme and had planned to meet with legal counsel, a real estate agency, and the government’s special crime unit to present evidence against him. However, Borja was killed before he could act on these plans. Additionally, Mannsfeld had referenced a “massive fraud case” involving millions in stolen assets in a January email and was involved in a $3.9 million lawsuit against a former associate. These details suggest that Mannsfeld’s death may be linked to his business disputes and potentially even to the murders of Borja and Taylor. Williams emphasized that while the possibility of a connection is being explored, the investigation is still ongoing, and no definitive conclusions have been reached.
Mannsfeld’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through Belize, a country he had grown to love deeply. According to his company’s website, Mannsfeld first fell in love with Belize during a trip in 1992 and made it his “barefoot paradise” in 2006. He had spent 10 years working in real estate in the U.S. before relocating to Belize permanently with his family. The website also highlights his adventurous spirit, noting his passion for endurance mountain biking, road biking, and snow skiing. His contributions to Belize’s development were significant, as he played a key role in shaping the country’s luxury real estate market and diversifying its economy through various business ventures.
The news of Mannsfeld’s death comes amid growing concerns about safety in Belize. Just recently, three American women were found dead at a beach resort in Belize, reportedly from a possible overdose. These incidents have raised questions about the safety of tourists and foreigners in the country, which has otherwise been known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. While authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding these deaths, the high-profile nature of Mannsfeld’s murder has drawn international attention and underscores the need for greater transparency and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in Belize and other countries.
As the investigation into Mannsfeld’s death continues, it remains to be seen whether authorities will uncover a broader pattern of violence linked to his business dealings or whether this was an isolated incident. For now, the focus is on piecing together the events leading up to his death and ensuring justice is served for him and his family. Mannsfeld’s legacy as a visionary developer and his deep connection to Belize serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in building a life and business in a foreign country. His story, while tragic, also highlights the resilience and ambition of those who seek to create a new life in a place they love.
