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MURDER IN BELIZE: Victim's mom says 2 detained

By Matt Johnson, WSB-TV
By Matt Johnson, WSB-TV

BELIZE — Police in Belize have detained two people in connection with the murder of an Atlanta man and his Canadian girlfriend, the victim's mother tells Channel 2's Matt Johnson. 

Drew DeVoursney's mother says she received an email telling her about the new developments around 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

His mother says the news is a positive step although it's unclear why her son was murdered.

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Authorities found the 36-year-old and 52-year-old Francseca Matus strangled to death Monday in a sugar cane field.

Johnson spoke to his family Sunday night while the couple was still missing in the Central American country they were both familiar with.

Drew Devoursney's family says the couple likely never made it to their homes after leaving a bar together April 25.

A local TV station in the city of Corozal is reporting police are investigating open threats made toward the girlfriend.

Drew Devoursney's younger brother David is in Belize now to stay as close to the investigation as he can.

He tells Johnson he's requested the help of U.S. authorities in the case.

So far the family says no one has mentioned a motive or the names of the people detained.

Johnson has been making calls on this case all day. The state department says they're monitoring the investigation by local authorities.

Drew Devoursney's mother says she hopes to place his ashes.

The State Department released the following statement:

"We can confirm the death of U.S. citizen Drew DeVoursney ‎in the Corozal District of Belize on May 1, 2017.  We extend our deepest condolences to family and friends.  We are closely monitoring local authorities' investigation into the cause of death. The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan stands ready to provide all possible consular assistance. Out of respect for the family during this difficult time, we have no further information to share."

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