Tragic Discovery at Belize Resort as Three American Tourists Found Dead

Authorities in Belize are investigating the unsettling deaths of three American tourists at a beach resort. Reports indicate that their deaths may be linked to possible drug overdoses.

The deceased women, identified as Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26, were found lifeless in a room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro. This tragic event unfolded over the weekend after the women were last seen entering their accommodation on Thursday night.

Resort staff grew concerned when the group could not be reached the following day. After several attempts to contact the women were unsuccessful, employees used a master key to gain access to their room on Saturday morning, only to discover the women unresponsive.

In a chilling account of the scene, reports from The Associated Press stated the bodies were “motionless.” This has prompted a thorough investigation led by local authorities to determine the cause of death.

Although the exact circumstances surrounding their passing remain unclear, staff members observed froth around the women’s mouths, raising suspicions of drug-related fatalities. Local news outlet Channel 5 Belize reported that inside the room, officials found both alcoholic beverages and some gummies. Police are diligently scrutinizing the origins of these substances, considering whether they were brought from the United States or obtained locally.

Investigation Focuses on Possible Substances

Police Commissioner Chester Williams commented on the findings, stating, “We’re not saying at this time that the gummies caused death, but we’re looking at every possibility.” Meanwhile, vapes and various snacks were also discovered in the room, yet there were no signs of struggle or forced entry.

The Royal Kahal Beach Resort, popular among tourists, has become a focal point of this investigation. Visitors often flock to Belize for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, yet concerns about safety loom large.

Safety Concerns in Belize

Belize, located along the Caribbean coast, is known for its beautiful beaches and rich biodiversity. However, it is imperative for American tourists to remain vigilant. The U.S. State Department frequently issues travel advisories cautioning American citizens about safety in Belize, emphasizing the prevalence of violent crime in both urban and tourist regions.

The advisory clearly states, “Violent crime — such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder — are common even during the day and in tourist areas.” Notably, much of this criminal activity is gang-related, posing serious risks to visitors.

While the advisory encompasses the entire nation, Belize City, located approximately 35 miles south of San Pedro, is particularly flagged for caution. Travelers are urged to exercise significant care when exploring this area due to the high crime rates.

The State Department’s warning reflects concerns over inadequate local law enforcement resources to effectively handle serious crimes. Its advisory firmly states, “Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious crimes.”

As this investigation continues, many tourists are left reflecting on safety precautions while traveling to popular destinations in Belize.

Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact

As investigators delve deeper into the circumstances that led to the tragic deaths of these three women, the community is also impacted. Local businesses, aware of the potential consequences of this incident on tourism, are keenly monitoring developments. Many hope that swift action and transparency from authorities will restore confidence among visitors.

Fox News Digital has attempted to contact the Belize Police Department for further updates about the ongoing investigation but has yet to receive a response.

While the eyes of the media and concerned citizens remain focused on the developments, authorities are committed to unraveling the truth behind this heartbreaking event.

This report includes information from The Associated Press.