Families react as cause of Belize hotel deaths confirmed
The families of Kaoutar Naqqad (23), Imane Mallah (24), and Wafae El-Arar (26) have issued a statement following the confirmation that the three American women died of carbon monoxide poisoning during a vacation in Belize last month.
The women were found unresponsive in their hotel room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro on February 22. On March 26, Belizean authorities confirmed that toxic levels of carbon monoxide were responsible for their deaths, with each woman's carboxyhemoglobin levels exceeding 60%—far above the safe threshold.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced by fuel-burning appliances. It can be lethal in enclosed spaces, and early tests initially failed to detect it in the hotel room. However, a second test, conducted after continued pressure from the families and media, confirmed its presence.
Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams acknowledged earlier findings had been inconclusive and said final test results were still pending. In a prior press conference on February 24, Williams had mentioned the presence of alcohol and THC-infused gummies at the scene, but no substances were found in the victims' bodies, according to National Forensic Science Service director Gian Cho.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the families said they were 'shattered by the loss of these three bright lights' and expressed gratitude for the 'thorough and independent' investigation. They emphasized the need for careful, respectful handling of such tragedies by law enforcement and media moving forward.
'While today's official finding puts to rest those initial reports, we hope this will give authorities in law enforcement pause before they make similar suggestions during future investigations,' the families said. 'Survivors such as our families deserve their best, honest work. We received it today but needed it throughout this investigative process.'
The families are also awaiting results from a separate independent review by Massachusetts authorities and have urged Belizean officials to continue investigating to prevent future harm.
They extended thanks to local and international media outlets, U.S. and Belizean officials, and the broader community for continued support.
'May their beautiful souls rest in eternal peace. We will forever love and miss you, Kaoutar, Imane, and Wafae,' the statement concluded. 'Our families ask for continued prayers, patience, and privacy as we navigate this unimaginable loss.'
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