Tragedy: Three women died from poisoning in Belize hotel

Grief-stricken families of three American women, Kaoutar Naqqad (23), Imane Mallah (24), and Wafae El-Arar (26) are demanding answers after Belizean authorities confirmed that carbon monoxide poisoning led to their untimely deaths.

The tragic incident occurred at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro, where the women were found unresponsive in their hotel room on February 22,2025.

In a report released on March 26, 2025, Belizean authorities revealed that the victims’ carboxyhemoglobin levels exceeded 60%, far beyond the safe limit.

Carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas produced by fuel-burning devices, has been described as the silent killer.

Initial tests at the hotel room failed to detect the deadly gas, leaving investigators and families in limbo.

However, sustained pressure from the victims’ families and widespread media attention forced a second round of tests, which confirmed its presence.

The revelation has sparked outrage, with families calling for stricter safety measures in hotels to prevent such tragedies.

They insist the deaths could have been avoided if proper safety checks were in place.

However, the Royal Kahal Beach Resort is now under intense scrutiny, as investigations continue into how such a fatal lapse occurred.

Key facts about Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, making it a major silent threat. It is highly toxic and can cause serious health issues or even death, especially in enclosed spaces.

Common sources

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels do not burn completely.

Vehicles: Car engines, motorcycles, and generators.

Household Appliances: Gas stoves, heaters, and water boilers.

Wood and Charcoal: Fireplaces, grills, and wood stoves.

Industries: Factories involved in steel production and oil refining.

How Carbon Monoxide affect health

Exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to various health problems, including:

• Headaches

• Dizziness,

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Confusion

• Memory loss

• Brain damage

Certain groups are more vulnerable, including infants, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Stay Safe from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Install CO Detectors: Place them near sleeping areas and check batteries regularly.

Maintain Appliances: Ensure all fuel-burning devices are properly installed and serviced.

Never Run Generators Indoors: Use them in well-ventilated outdoor spaces.

Avoid Idling Vehicles in Garages: Even with the door open, CO can seep into the house.

Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep chimneys, fireplaces, and stoves clean and functioning properly.

Medical professionals may administer oxygen to help clear CO from your system.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable.

Stay alert, take safety precautions, and protect yourself from this invisible killer.

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