Three American Tourists Found Dead in Belize Resort, Possible Drug Overdoses Suspected

Authorities in Belize are investigating the deaths of three American tourists who were found dead in a room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro over the weekend, Fox News reports.

The women have been identified as Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26.

Local officials are currently investigating the deaths as possible drug overdoses.

According to reports, resort staff last saw the group entering their room Thursday night. After failing to make contact with the women on Friday, employees used a master key to enter the room Saturday morning, where they discovered the three women “motionless,” as per the The Associated Press.

While the official cause of death is pending further investigation, reports indicate that the women had froth in their mouths, a symptom often associated with drug overdoses. Channel 5 Belize reported that “alcohol and some gummies” were found in the room, and police are investigating whether the substances were brought from the US or purchased locally.

In addition to the alcohol and gummies, vapes and snacks were also found in the room. Investigators found no signs of forced entry or visible injuries.

Belize, a popular tourist destination in Central America bordering the Caribbean Sea, attracts many American visitors. However, the US government advises its citizens to exercise caution while traveling in the country.

While the advisory applies to the entire country, the State Department specifically recommends avoiding Belize City, located approximately 35 miles south of San Pedro.