Kent Bowers was a 17-year-old Belizean teenager at the time of the crime that would make him one of the most infamous names in the country’s legal history. Public records and media coverage from that time offer very little insight into his personal background, upbringing, or mental health.

On the evening of July 4, 1984, a private anniversary party was underway in Belize City, hosted by Francis and Dora Codd to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. The event was meant to be a joyful family affair, until it turned tragic.

Kent Bowers, then 17 years old, entered the restaurant where the celebration was being held. He was not an invited guest, and according to witness testimony, was asked to leave. Their son, Robert Codd, escorted Bowers outside. What followed was a sudden and violent altercation.

Outside the restaurant, a struggle broke out between Bowers and Robert Codd. During the confrontation, Bowers stabbed Codd several times. Codd collapsed and died within minutes of the attack.

Bowers was arrested shortly after and charged with murder. His trial concluded on October 23, 1984, when he was convicted and given the mandatory sentence of death by hanging. Under Belizean law at the time, the death penalty was compulsory for murder convictions unless clemency or successful appeal intervened.

Bowers attempted to appeal his conviction to the Court of Appeal of Belize, but his legal arguments were rejected. He also petitioned for clemency, which was ultimately denied by the Governor General, Dame Elmira Minita Gordon.

On the morning of June 19, 1985, Kent Bowers was hanged at Her Majesty's Prison on Goal Lane, Belize City. He was only 18 years old at the time of his execution. His death remains the last officially recorded execution in Belize, though the country retains capital punishment on its books.