Families of Revere women who died in Belize call for ‘transparent' investigation

Boston Globe

10-03-2025

'The circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain unclear and suspicious, and we are seeking answers to understand what happened in Belize,' the families said in a statement issued on their
Authorities in Belize have said the women appeared to have froth been frothing at their mouths and investigators found alcohol and 'gummies' in the room. There was no sign of forced entry or injuries.
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In the statement, relatives recalled each of the women.
Wafae El Arar
'was full of life, dreams, and unwavering faith. Her name, meaning faithfulness and loyalty, was a true reflection of who she was — honest, kind, and deeply devoted to the people she loved,' relatives said. She was 'on a personal journey of faith, planning to wear the hijab this Ramadan alongside her younger sister.'
Wafae El Arar cuts a cake in celebration of her graduation. (Family Photo)
Family Photo
El Arar graduated from Revere High School in 2017 and Stonehill College in 2021 with a degree in biochemistry, according to her LinkedIn profile.
El Arar was a research technician at the Mitchell Lab at Massachusetts General Hospital focused on women's health. She was 'committed to making a difference in an area often overlooked in healthcare,' relatives said.
'She was so proud to have recently
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Imane Mallah 'had a unique ability to listen deeply, making everyone feel heard and valued,' relatives said. 'She was a radiant spirit, and a beacon of kindness. She embraced life wholeheartedly, cherishing every soul that shared the journey with her.'
Her friends considered her 'a warm, comforting light, guiding them through even the darkest of times,' the family wrote. She was a graduate of Revere High School.
Imane Mallah. (Family Photo)
Family Photo
Mallah worked with Phoenix Protective Service, a Charlestown-based security firm, according to a
Her family wrote that 'Imane poured her heart into everything she did. Her laughter was contagious, and her stories were filled with humor and wisdom, leaving those around her both entertained and inspired ... She was our greatest love and we will miss her every day for the rest of our lives.'
Kaoutar Naqqad was 'the light in our lives, someone whose kindness and warmth touched everyone she met,' her relatives said. 'As the youngest daughter of four siblings, she held a special place in our family, bringing joy, laughter, and love into our home every single day.'
She was attending college and also worked at a group home for 'troubled youth,' her family wrote. Her professional goal was to become part of law enforcement.
Kaoutar Naqqad. (Family Photo)
Family Photo
Naqqad, also a graduate of Revere High School, had taken the civil service exam and recently took the civil service exam for the State Police.
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Naqqad had a fear of flying but set that aside to visit Belize with her two close friends. She was planning to visit Morocco with her parents this summer, according to relatives.
'Her heart was full of generosity, always putting others before herself and offering a listening ear, a comforting word, and unwavering support,' the family wrote. 'We cannot put into words the depth of our grief and the void that Kaoutar's passing has left in our hearts.'
The families expressed thanks for the outpouring of support they have received in Revere and among the Muslim and Moroccan communities in the area.
'We ask for continued prayers, patience, and privacy as we navigate this profound sorrow,' they said. 'May their beautiful souls rest in eternal peace.'
John R. Ellement can be reached at