Toxicology results confirmed carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause of death for three U.S. women found unresponsive in a San Pedro hotel room; authorities say no illicit drugs were detected in their systems.
The National Forensic Science Service revealed the findings during a press briefing, noting that carboxyhemoglobin saturation levels in all three victims far exceeded the 40% threshold considered fatal, with one reaching as high as 80%. The toxicology report now allows the medical examiner to update the previously provisional cause of death—acute pulmonary edema—to reflect the confirmed toxic exposure.
Authorities explained that carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the bloodstream, preventing vital organs from receiving oxygen and leading to pulmonary edema. The victims had reportedly been staying in a room equipped with a gas-powered water heater, now suspected to have malfunctioned and emitted the lethal gas.
The initial carbon monoxide test conducted after the incident returned negative, likely because the heater was off. However, following reports from previous guests and media coverage, a second round of testing was done by the Department of Environment and the Fire Department. Although that test reportedly detected carbon monoxide, officials confirmed they have not yet received a formal written report.
The toxicology screening was extensive, testing not only for illicit substances and prescription medications but also for pesticides and various gases. The only substance detected in any items from the room was THC in a single gummy; no illicit substances were found in the victims' blood or tissues.
The police will forward the investigative file to the Director of Public Prosecutions to determine whether any criminal liability exists. If not, the matter may proceed as a civil case. Meanwhile, the Belize Tourism Board and Ministry of Health are expected to assess whether the hotel can safely reopen.
No civil engineers participated in the investigation, but questions have been raised about the standards of the gas water heater used in the room.
The families of the deceased received the toxicology report through the U.S. Embassy. Officials noted that additional independent testing may be pursued by the families as they consider legal recourse.
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