Families of American Women Found Dead in San Pedro Resort Respond to Investigation Findings

The families of Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah, and Wafae El Arar have issued a statement following confirmation from the U.S. Embassy in Belize that the three women died from acute carbon monoxide poisoning, likely caused by a faulty instant water heater.

The women were found dead in their hotel room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro in February.

In their statement, the grieving families expressed devastation over their loss but welcomed the findings of the investigation, commending the thorough and independent work carried out by officials. They also noted that a separate independent review by authorities in Massachusetts is still ongoing.

The families reiterated their initial concerns regarding the handling of the case, stating that early reports in the media had been misleading. “We have said since the beginning of this investigation that their deaths were suspicious and raised concerns about initial reports in the news media.”

“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. Survivors such as our families deserve their best, honest work. We received it today but needed it throughout this investigative process,” the statement added.