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Three young women visiting Belize from Massachusetts tragically lost their lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning at a beach resort, according to recent findings.

An investigation into the deaths of Kaoutar Naqqad, 23, Imane Mallah, 24, and Wafae El-Arar, 26, all residents of Revere, Mass., revealed lethal levels of carbon monoxide exposure. The women were discovered unresponsive in their accommodation at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro on February 22.

According to findings from Belize’s National Forensic Service’s toxicology analysis, the victims exhibited signs of acute pulmonary edema, a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, which was determined to be a result of carbon monoxide exposure.

The investigation uncovered alarming details about the extent of the poisoning. The toxicology results indicated that the women’s carbon monoxide saturation levels reached approximately 60%, significantly exceeding the 40% threshold considered lethal.

Law enforcement officials have identified a potentially defective water heater within the hotel room as the likely source of the deadly carbon monoxide exposure.

As authorities continue their investigation into this tragic incident, additional information is expected to emerge.