Three young American women who traveled to Belize for a beach getaway were found dead in their hotel room last month. With three U.S. tourists dead, new toxicology results reveal they were killed by a silent killer—carbon monoxide.
Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26, were discovered unresponsive inside their shared room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro on February 22.
Toxicology Report Confirms Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
A newly released report from Belize’s National Forensic Service confirmed what many had feared. The women died from “fatal exposure to carbon monoxide poisoning.” All three registered carbon monoxide saturation levels near 60%—far above the 40% threshold considered fatal.
The report also noted acute pulmonary edema, a dangerous fluid buildup in the lungs, caused by the poisoning. Investigators believe a faulty water heater in the room may have leaked the gas.
Three U.S. tourists dead: No Injuries, No Drugs, Just a Tragic Mistake
Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams said there were no signs of physical injuries on the bodies. However, vomit was found near each of them.
Investigators discovered alcohol and gummies in the hotel room. But further testing showed no presence of illegal drugs in the women’s systems. This finding directly contradicted early speculation and online rumors about drug use.
Families Slam Early Theories, Thank Investigators
In a powerful statement, the families thanked authorities for conducting a thorough review. They also criticized those who had rushed to blame drugs before the investigation was complete.
“While we remain shattered by the loss of these three bright lights in our world,” the families wrote, “we are incredibly heartened by the results of this investigation.”
They added, “We hope this will give law enforcement pause before making similar suggestions in future cases.”
The families also thanked local and international media, U.S. and Belizean leaders, and everyone who helped keep pressure on officials to act.
Grief and Anger Over Preventable Deaths
Friends and relatives in Massachusetts, where the women lived, continue to grieve. Many believe their deaths could have been prevented.
“This should never have happened,” a family friend said. “A faulty appliance should not claim three young lives.”
Now, the families are demanding accountability from the hotel’s management and the Belizean authorities. They want answers about how the water heater passed safety inspections—if it ever did.
Massachusetts to Conduct Independent Review
While Belize has closed its investigation, Massachusetts officials plan their own review. It’s unclear when results from that probe will be released.
Some local lawmakers have already called for new safety protocols to protect American tourists traveling abroad. Others want resorts that cater to U.S. citizens to meet higher inspection standards.
Community Mourning Loss of Three Young Women
The three women were well-known in their community of Revere, Massachusetts. All of them were ambitious, kind, and full of life.
Naqqad had just started graduate school. Mallah recently began a new job. El-Arar was planning to move to New York later this year.
Friends say the trip to Belize was supposed to be a break from the cold and a way to celebrate life. Instead, it ended in tragedy.
“We are devastated,” one neighbor said. “They were smart, driven, and beautiful inside and out.”
Royal Kahal Beach Resort Under Scrutiny
The Royal Kahal Beach Resort now faces major scrutiny. Although no criminal charges have been filed, many are asking how such a deadly gas leak could happen in a high-end resort.
Officials have not released any information about previous safety violations or inspections at the property.
The resort has not issued a formal statement since the toxicology results were released.
Tourists Warned About Carbon Monoxide Risks Abroad
This tragedy is yet another reminder that many hotels around the world lack carbon monoxide detectors in guest rooms.
Experts say travelers should consider bringing portable CO detectors on international trips, especially when staying in unfamiliar properties.
Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless. Victims often fall unconscious before realizing anything is wrong.
Families Demand Transparency and Justice
The grieving families say their fight isn’t over. They want a full public report detailing how the investigation was handled, what steps were taken by the hotel, and what Belizean officials plan to do to prevent another tragedy.
“We received honesty today,” they said, “but we needed it from the start.”
They’re also asking for prayers, privacy, and patience as they continue to process the unimaginable loss.
“May their beautiful souls rest in eternal peace,” the families said. “We will forever love and miss you, Kaoutar, Imane, and Wafae.”
