Authorities in Mexico are investigating fears that a serial killer may be targeting women in Puerto Vallarta, one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, after three women were found murdered within just 11 days this month.
The bodies were discovered in isolated areas across the Pacific coast resort city, with the first found near a well-known viewpoint called Rancho El Piruli in Chimborazo on May 10. Just five days later, a second victim was found at a roadside stop along a highway. The most recent body was left on a dirt road in the Parque Las Palmas neighbourhood. All three women were in their early to mid-thirties, had tattoos, and were found partially undressed in remote locations.
None of the victims have been formally identified, though unconfirmed social media reports suggest the most recent may be 22-year-old Elizabeth Martinez, who disappeared in April. Her family filed a missing persons report, and her tattoos are said to match those found on the body, which bore distinctive markings including a skull, a woman with horns, and a name around the neck, hand and arm. The body also reportedly showed signs of violence.
Police are now scouring surveillance footage and examining potential connections between the three deaths. Investigators are also exploring the possibility that the women were killed elsewhere and their bodies transported to Puerto Vallarta afterwards, suggesting the killer or killers may have a wider operating range than initially thought. The investigation remains at an early stage and no arrests have been made.
The murders have sent shockwaves through a city that was already reeling from an explosion of cartel violence earlier this year. Following the death of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader El Mencho in a military operation, bloodthirsty gang members launched a violent wave of revenge across the region, burning buses, looting shops and storming through Guadalajara airport firing shots. Terrifying footage showed tourists fleeing in panic as thick plumes of smoke rose above the city, and thousands of locals and visitors were forced to shelter in hotels and homes for hours as gunfire continued throughout the day.
The timing of the murders could not be more alarming. Mexico is preparing to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on June 11, with matches scheduled across three cities including Guadalajara. Officials have announced that nearly 100,000 police, soldiers and security personnel will be deployed to protect fans during the tournament, covering stadiums, fan zones, airports and transport hubs. But the latest developments in Puerto Vallarta will inevitably raise questions about safety in a country that continues to grapple with serious levels of violent crime.
For tourists considering visiting the region, the situation serves as a stark reminder that beneath the turquoise waters and picture-perfect beaches, serious dangers remain. Puerto Vallarta attracts hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year. Whether local or international, the three women killed this month deserved far better than the fate they met, and their families are still waiting for answers.
