Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Confirmed as Cause of Death for 3 American Women in Belize

Belizean authorities cite a faulty water heater as the likely source, while families await results of an independent review in Massachusetts.

Kaoutar Naqqad, Imane Mallah, and Wafae El-Arar were found dead in their hotel room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort on February 22, 2025.
Toxicology reports confirmed fatal carboxyhemoglobin levels exceeding 60%, indicating acute carbon monoxide poisoning.
Belizean officials believe a faulty instant water heater in the hotel room was the likely source of the deadly gas.
The families of the victims, initially critical of the investigation, expressed relief at the thoroughness of the findings but continue to await a secondary review in Massachusetts.
The incident has raised broader concerns about safety standards in tourist accommodations and prompted discussions on travel safety in Belize.