Family and friends of three young American women found dead at a beach resort in Belize are grappling with disbelief over initial reports suggesting that they died from an overdose. The trio—Kaoutar Naqqad, 23; Imane Mallah, 24; and Wafae El-Arar, 26—were remembered as respectful and valued members of their community in Revere, Massachusetts, during a vigil held in their honor.
Attendees expressed their skepticism about the theory put forth by local authorities in Belize. Many spoke passionately about how the women did not fit the narrative of reckless behavior that an overdose would imply. Hajar El Khalfaoui, a close friend of the group, emphasized that Mallah had never shown interest in partying or excessive drinking. “It’s very frustrating because when you hear ‘possible OD,’ you automatically assume certain things about a person, but that’s not who they were,” she shared.
Mallah had been known for her conscientious nature, often avoiding environments where alcohol was present. In fact, El Khalfaoui recounted how Mallah urged her not to attend parties at times, highlighting the irony of the overdose theory being linked to such caring individuals.
Local Belizean officials have yet to provide an official cause of death as they await autopsy results. However, they did report finding alcohol and marijuana gummies in the women’s accommodation at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro. Resort staff discovered the trio unresponsive after multiple attempts to reach them. According to the Belize Police Commissioner Chester Williams, there were no visible signs of injuries, but vomit was found near each woman.
Supporters of the deceased continued to voice their concerns about the authorities’ transparency. Destiny Borges-Kelley, another friend, echoed the sentiment, sharing her disbelief of the overdose narrative. “They were respectful; they wouldn’t do the things people are claiming,” she asserted. The women were not just friends but dedicated individuals with plans for the future, making the circumstances surrounding their deaths all the more tragic.
Mallah’s mother, Zineb Elghilani, expressed her heartache at the vigil, describing her daughter as joyful and warm-hearted. Revere’s leaders are also demanding more accountability from Belizean authorities. City Councilor Ira Novoselsky criticized the lack of clear communication from local officials, stating, “We’re getting stonewalled; it feels like they’re only giving their side of the story.”
Revere Mayor Patrick Keefe Jr. addressed the community’s concerns, vowing to seek answers from Belizean officials. He emphasized the importance of understanding the full story behind the women’s tragic deaths, stating, “These are daughters, friends, and contributors to our city.” He has reached out to federal representatives for help in gathering information that could clarify the circumstances.
The United States State Department is also monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with local Belizean authorities regarding the investigation. They are reviewing the toxicology reports and taking steps to ensure that each aspect of this case is thoroughly examined, including any possible factors like carbon monoxide that could explain the unfortunate incident.
As they wait for answers, El Khalfaoui reflected on her lasting love for her friends, urging everyone to remember them as the beautiful souls they were. “Wafae, Imane, and Kaoutar were some of the best people I’ve known,” she shared at the vigil, “If you hear their names and their story, please take a moment to pray for them.”
The crisis surrounding their deaths has raised significant questions about safety standards and law enforcement responses in Belize, prompting calls for greater accountability. As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to seek clarity on what transpired, holding tight to the memory of three young lives lost far too soon.
