Popular beach town has serial killer fears deepen after three women found murdered

Travel
27 May 2026 • 4:45 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Popular beach town has serial killer fears deepen after three women found murdered

  • The bodies of three murdered women have been discovered in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, within less than two weeks, sparking fears of a potential serial killer in the popular tourist destination.
  • All three victims were found partially undressed in isolated or lightly traveled areas, appeared to be between 30 and 35 years old, and had multiple tattoos, leading authorities to investigate potential connections between the cases.
  • Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and police reports to determine if the killings are linked, also exploring whether the women may have been killed elsewhere and their bodies later abandoned in Puerto Vallarta.
  • Local reports suggest the woman found most recently may be 22-year-old Elizabeth Martinez, who was reported missing in late April from the State of México, though this identification remains unconfirmed by officials.
  • The mounting rumors of a serial killer have fueled concern among both residents and tourists, with travel experts advising visitors to maintain a heightened sense of awareness, following previous cartel violence in the city.

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