Police said Monday that three American women were found dead in a beach resort in Belize over the weekend.
Belize police identified the women as Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26, who live at Royal Cajal Beach Resort. They did not release any other details.
The city of Reville, Massachusetts said in a social media post that the three women are local residents.
“The city of Reville expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of three local women who unfortunately passed away unexpectedly in Belize,” the city said in a Facebook post.
Housing staff at the resort tried to enter the room Thursday night after Friday's surveillance video showed no return, but tried to contact the women on Friday, police said in a statement. After staff received no response on Saturday morning, they used a master key to enter and found the woman motionless.
The cause of their deaths has not been confirmed. The first responders said the women were found to have foamy mouths, indicating a possible overdose of the drug.
Authorities told Belize News 5 live broadcast that police found alcohol and gummy at the scene.
Police Chief Chester Williams told the media, adding that police are investigating whether to bring the gummy to Belize or buy it locally.
Police reported no signs of forced entry or obvious harm, and police found snacks, liquids, VAPES and other electronic devices in the women's room.
According to its website, Royal Kahal is a luxurious beachfront resort in Ambergris Caye, Belize.
Police say they are still investigating.
On December 30, 2024, the U.S. State Department issued a Belize Travel Consultation for Crime.
“Violent crimes, such as sexual assault, family invasions, armed robbery and murder are common even during the day and in tourist areas,” the consultation said.
