Latest news with #BelizeNationalForensicScienceService
USA Today
29-03-2025
- Health
- USA Today
3 US tourists reportedly died from carbon monoxide poisoning at Belizean luxury resort
3 US tourists reportedly died from carbon monoxide poisoning at Belizean luxury resort The three women were all reportedly exposed to carbon monoxide before their deaths, with each registering carbon monoxide saturation levels of around 60%. Show Caption Hide Caption Three Massachusetts women found dead at Belize resort Three tourists from Massachusetts were found dead at a beach resort in Belize under mysterious circumstances. unbranded - Newsworthy Three U.S. tourists who were found dead in a luxury resort in Belize reportedly died from carbon monoxide poisoning. The three Revere, Massachusetts women — Kaoutar Naqqad, 23; Imane Mallah, 24; and Wafae El-Arar, 26 — were found dead inside their room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro on Feb. 22, according to WCVB and CBS News. Gian Cho, executive director of the Belize National Forensic Science Service, confirmed in a toxicology report obtained by the outlets that the three women died of acute pulmonary edema, which was triggered by excessive carbon monoxide exposure. The tourists were all exposed to carbon monoxide before their deaths, with each registering carbon monoxide saturation levels of around 60%, according to the toxicology report reviewed by CBS News. A fatal level is 40%. Police believe the women may have been exposed to the gas from a faulty heater in their hotel room, WCVB reported. "Their bodies exhibited no signs of injuries," Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams said, per the Boston, Massachusetts-based TV station. "Police also saw inside their room what appeared to be vomiting beside each female." USA TODAY contacted the Belize National Forensic Science Service and Belizean police on Thursday but has not received a response. Women's families urged Belizean authorities to share more information As a result of the findings, Williams also said authorities have conducted a second test of the hotel room for carbon monoxide after initial testing turned up negative, CBS News reported. He said they are still awaiting the final results. "We are deeply alarmed by news reports which suggest that carbon monoxide levels in the hotel could have been at dangerously high levels and that the resort has now suddenly closed without public explanation," the three women's families said in a joint statement earlier this week shared with NBC Boston. "We believe the families of all guests – past and future – deserve a clear explanation for this action." "We respectfully urge the resort's management and Belizean authorities to share any information they have immediately, so that no other family has to endure the unimaginable pain we must now bear. Our loved ones deserve transparency and all who visit Belize, especially the resort, deserve to know they are safe," it continued. Gummies and alcohol found in the three women's hotel room Last month, Belize police said they only found alcohol and "gummies" in the hotel room where the women were discovered but WCVB said the toxicology report did not detect drugs in their systems. Williams did not clarify if the gummies contained THC. "The police did a thorough search of the scene, along with the pathologists ... There was nothing of substance that could have been found other than alcohol and some gummies," Williams said at the time, per Channel5Belize and 7NewsBelize. 'We're not saying at this time that the gummies cause death, but we're looking at every possibility.' The police commissioner added that investigators were looking into whether the gummies were bought locally or if the women brought them on the trip. Security footage showed the women entering their room on Thursday, but no video was captured of them leaving or anyone going inside before they were discovered on Saturday, according to local reports, citing Belize police. "Based on what the pathologist said when he visited on Saturday evening is that they could have been dead 20 hours prior, so that would take us back to Friday or Thursday that they eventually died," Williams said. Revere mayor says Belizean authorities lack transparency The city of Revere, located about seven miles outside of Boston, continues to mourn the three women, with Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr. releasing a statement upon their deaths. "I was deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah, and Wafae El-Arar, three young women who were valued members of the Revere community," Keefe said. "On behalf of the entire City of Revere, I extend my condolences to their families and loved ones during this time of unimaginable loss." The mayor also questioned the three women's deaths and the Belizean authorities' pending investigation. "The information we have received thus far from the Belizean authorities leaves our grieving community with too many questions: These are daughters, friends, and contributors to our City, and I have heard widespread concern from the families and community members about the lack of transparency in this investigation, and the media narrative painted by Belizean authorities," Keefe said. An odorless gas blamed for deaths: How to stay safe Keefe also noted that the Department of State issued a Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" travel advisory for the country in December due to increased crime risks, adding that state officials will "exhaust all avenues, both domestic and abroad, to ensure proper and fair analysis of this case." The families of Kaoutar, Wafae, and Imane have created GoFundMe pages to raise money for funerals and other expenses related to their deaths, which have raised more than $90,000 in total. 'The City of Revere extends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the three local women who tragically and unexpectedly passed away in Belize,' a Facebook post from the city said.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
3 Americans in Belize died from carbon monoxide in hotel room, officials say
Three American women who were discovered dead in a Belize resort hotel room last month died from carbon monoxide poisoning, their families said. A joint statement this week from their families cites the U.S. Embassy in Belize and says the women died from "acute carbon monoxide poisoning, likely caused by a faulty instant water heater." Wafae El Arar, 26; Imane Mallah, 24; and Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, were found dead in their San Pedro hotel room Feb. 22, officials said. Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr. of Revere, Massachusetts, has described the women as "daughters, friends and contributors to our city." On Thursday, Belize National Forensic Science Service's executive director told local news stations the women had lethal levels of carboxyhemoglobin — greater than 50% — which forms in red blood cells tainted by carbon monoxide before shoving vital oxygen aside. Forensics chief Gian Cho said the three had no illicit drugs in their systems. Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams said last month that vomit, alcohol and "gummies" were observed in the hotel room. Marijuana gummies are popular in states where cannabis is legal; fatal overdoses are rare. Belize Fire Chief Colin Gillet told PlusTV last month carbon monoxide poisoning was ruled out. A second round of testing was ordered, however, and the hotel was temporarily closed, Williams has said. Representatives of the hotel did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Friday. The families were concerned about the integrity of the investigation, and the Massachusetts chief medical examiner's office agreed to determine cause and manner of death, still pending. In their statement Thursday, the families said, "Survivors such as our families deserve their best, honest work. We received it today but needed it throughout this investigative process." This article was originally published on
NBC News
28-03-2025
- Health
- NBC News
3 Americans in Belize died from carbon monoxide in hotel room, officials say
Three American women who were discovered dead in a Belize resort hotel room last month died from carbon monoxide poisoning, their families said. A joint statement this week from their families cites the U.S. Embassy in Belize and says the women died from "acute carbon monoxide poisoning, likely caused by a faulty instant water heater." Wafae El Arar, 26; Imane Mallah, 24; and Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, were found dead in their San Pedro hotel room Feb. 22, officials said. Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr. of Revere, Massachusetts, has described the women as "daughters, friends and contributors to our city." On Thursday, Belize National Forensic Science Service's executive director told local news stations the women had lethal levels of carboxyhemoglobin — greater than 50% — which forms in red blood cells tainted by carbon monoxide before shoving vital oxygen aside. Forensics chief Gian Cho said the three had no illicit drugs in their systems. Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams said last month that vomit, alcohol and "gummies" were observed in the hotel room. Marijuana gummies are popular in states where cannabis is legal; fatal overdoses are rare. Belize Fire Chief Colin Gillet told PlusTV last month carbon monoxide poisoning was ruled out. A second round of testing was ordered, however, and the hotel was temporarily closed, Williams has said. Representatives of the hotel did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Friday. The families were concerned about the integrity of the investigation, and the Massachusetts chief medical examiner's office agreed to determine cause and manner of death, still pending. In their statement Thursday, the families said, "Survivors such as our families deserve their best, honest work. We received it today but needed it throughout this investigative process."
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Report: Three women from Revere died of carbon monoxide poisoning in Belize
Three Revere women died of carbon monoxide poisoning while vacationing in Belize, according to a report by Channel 5 Belize. On Wednesday, the Belize National Forensic Science Service announced the findings of a toxicology report that took about three weeks to complete, according to Channel 5 Belize. The three women, described as lifelong friends were found dead in their hotel room at the resort in February. The families of Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Wafae El-Arar, 26, and Imane Mallah, 26, have urged authorities in Belize and the United States to do an investigation to find the truth about what happened. In light of this recent development, a spokesperson for the three families said they are not commenting at this time. Belize authorities said there were no signs of foul play. Prior to today's finding there had been speculation the women may have suffered overdoses, with a news outlet in Belize reporting that gummies and alcohol were found in the room. The women were young professionals in the medical field and part of a tight-knit community, officials said. GoFundMe pages have been set up on behalf of each of the three families linked to the tragedy. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
‘Unclear and suspicious': Families of Revere women found dead in Belize still searching for answers
The families of three young women from Revere who were found dead in Belize last month say their loved one's deaths remain 'unclear and suspicious.' The families of Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Wafae El-Arar, 26, and Imane Mallah, 26, said Monday that they have not been given a cause of death and they are urging authorities in Belize and the United States to do an investigation to find the truth about what happened. 'The circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain unclear and suspicious, and we are seeking answers to understand what happened in Belize,' a joint statement from the families reads. 'Our families are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received during this heartbreaking time. We ask for continued prayers, patience, and privacy as we navigate this profound sorrow. May their beautiful souls rest in eternal peace. We will forever love and miss you, Kaoutar, Imane and Wafae.' The Belize National Forensic Science Service told the Boston Globe that the women had a buildup of fluid in their lungs and died from 'acute pulmonary edema' while vacationing at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro. The lifelong friends were found dead in their room by hotel staff in February. They were visiting the small Central American country to celebrate a birthday. Belize authorities said there was no sign of foul play and there has also been speculation they may have suffered overdoses, with a news outlet in Belize reporting that gummies and alcohol were found in the room. Revere Mayor Patrick Keefe warned against a rush to judgment as he pushed for more transparency in the investigation. 'To jump to that conclusion is extremely disrespectful to the family,' Keefe said. I know it's impacting them immensely and I know it's something they are upset about.' The families of the three victims intend to arrange for private autopsies once the bodies are returned to the United States. Keefe said he's also working with Massachusetts Sen. Ed Markey's office to ensure the investigation in Belize is thorough. Revere city leaders, as well as the victims' families, want more answers as to how they died. 'We're getting stonewalled. Belize people are just saying their side of the story, but I'm sure there's more to it,' Revere City Councilor Ira Novoselsky said Tuesday after a vigil was held for the women. The women were young professionals in the medical field and part of a tight-knit community, officials said. The Department of State issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize in December 2024 due to an increased risk for crime. GoFundMe pages have been set up on behalf of each of the three families linked to the tragedy. The full statement from the three families can be read below: Bismillah (In the name of God), It is with unimaginable pain and heartbreak that we share the devastating news of the passing of Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah, Wafae El Arar, each a beloved light in the world lost too soon. Our families and all who loved these women are shattered, struggling to comprehend this profound and sudden loss. With this statement, our families hope to honor Kaoutar, Imane and Wafae by telling the world about the girls we knew and loved. Imane was a radiant spirit, and a beacon of kindness. She embraced life wholeheartedly, cherishing every soul that shared the journey with her. With her infectious smile, sparkling wit, and an unwaveringly optimistic heart, Imane illuminated every space she graced. Her friends often remarked that her presence was like a warm, comforting light, guiding them through even the darkest of times. She had a unique ability to listen deeply, making everyone feel heard and valued. Whether it was spending time with friends and family, engaging with her community, or simply her day-to-day life, 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. Imane's excitement for life was matched only by her compassion for others, making her a cherished friend and an irreplaceable part of the community. She was our greatest love and we will miss her every day for the rest of our lives. Until we meet again in Jannah (paradise) Insha' Allah (God Willing). Kaoutar was more than just a daughter, a sister, an aunt and a friend — she was the light in our lives, someone whose kindness and warmth touched everyone she met. 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 compassionate, caring, and deeply devoted to those she loved. Her heart was full of generosity, always putting others before herself and offering a listening ear, a comforting word, and unwavering support. She was a college student and worked as a residential support staff in a group home for troubled youth. Aspiring to join the police force, she eagerly awaited her opportunity to attend the police academy orientation. She was planning to visit Morocco with her parents in the summer. Before leaving for her flight, she prayed fajr (morning prayer for Muslims) and expressed to our mother how afraid she is of flying. We cannot put into words the depth of our grief and the void that Kaoutar's passing has left in our hearts. With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of our beloved Wafae. She just turned 26 this month, she 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. Wafae was a bright mind with a passion for women's health. As a research technician at Massachusetts General Hospital, she dedicated herself to reproductive rights and was committed to making a difference in an area often overlooked in healthcare. She was so proud to have recently co-authored a journal article that she had been working on for months, hoping that her contributions would help women around the world. Just days before her passing, Wafae visited her older sister in North Carolina, spending time with her beloved niece and nephew. They will always remember her reading 'Beauty and the Beast' in their playhouse, singing silly songs, and playing together at the park. She was their fun, loving aunt — the one who made every moment special. Wafae was also on a personal journey of faith, planning to wear the hijab this Ramadan alongside her younger sister. She prayed daily and had been translating the Quran into English, deepening her understanding and connection to her beliefs. To our mother, Wafae will always be the daughter who gifted her 'forever flowers,' a symbol of the love and kindness she carried in her heart. To all who knew her, she was caring, funny, humble, and incredibly giving. She was a light in our lives, taken too soon. She will be deeply missed. The circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain unclear and suspicious, and we are seeking answers to understand what happened in Belize. We urge the authorities in Belize and in the United States to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation so that we may find the truth and justice for Kaoutar, Imane and Wafae. Our families are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received during this heartbreaking time. We ask for continued prayers, patience, and privacy as we navigate this profound sorrow. May their beautiful souls rest in eternal peace. We will forever love and miss you, Kaoutar, Imane and Wafae. Statement from the families of Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah and Wafae El Arar This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
