American Tourists Die From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Belize Resort Room

Three American tourists from Massachusetts were found dead in their resort hotel room in Belize last month, and authorities have now revealed the cause of death: carbon monoxide poisoning.

Gian Cho, executive director of the National Forensics and Science Services (NFSS), told local outlet Love FM that test results showed all three victims had fatal exposure to carbon monoxide. The underlying cause of death was acute pulmonary edema, a condition caused by fluid buildup in the lungs.

The Victims

The deceased women were identified as Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26. They were found dead on February 22 at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro.

Their families released a joint statement on social media, expressing their profound grief and sharing memories of the three women:

• Imane Mallah was described as a "radiant spirit" and a "beacon of kindness" who embraced life wholeheartedly and cherished everyone she met.
• Kaoutar Naqqad was remembered for her kindness, warmth, compassion, and unwavering support for those she loved.
• Wafae El-Arar was characterized as a vibrant individual full of life, dreams, and unwavering faith. Her name, meaning faithfulness and loyalty, reflected her honesty, kindness, and devotion to loved ones. She also had a passion for women's health.

The statement concluded with the families hoping to honor their daughters by sharing their stories and letting the world know about the incredible girls they knew and loved.

Investigation Findings

Authorities initially tested the room for carbon monoxide after the bodies were discovered, but the test came back negative. However, information from the U.S. Embassy and individuals who had been in the room before indicated that a carbon monoxide detector had registered elevated levels in one of the rooms.

Chester Williams, police commissioner, suggested that the hotel rooms have gas-powered heaters, which could potentially release carbon monoxide only when used for several hours. The gas might be undetectable when the heaters are turned off for an extended period.

It is believed that the women may have been exposed to carbon monoxide while using the heater in their room.

Hotel Response

The resort staff reportedly attempted to contact the group on the Friday before they were found. On Saturday morning, employees used a master key to enter the room and discovered the women "motionless." Fox News Digital reached out to the resort for comment but did not receive an immediate response.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of carbon monoxide detectors in all living spaces and the need to be aware of potential sources of this deadly gas.