By Trend News Line 2024-02-12 20:05:51.
LA Woman Fatally Shot in Mexico: Tragic Crossfire at Popular Beach Resort
An American woman from Los Angeles, Niko Honarbakhsh, tragically lost her life during an apparent drug deal gone wrong at a beloved Mexican beach resort in Tulum. The incident, which occurred on February 9, also resulted in the death of an alleged drug dealer from Belize.
The Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident, aiming to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. According to ABC News, Honarbakhsh, a 44-year-old Los Angeles native, was identified as the American woman who lost her life in the crossfire.
Upon examining the belongings of the deceased drug dealer, authorities discovered cocaine, transparent bags containing red and orange pills, and brown granulated powder. These findings led the prosecutor’s office to conclude that the man was likely involved in drug trafficking and affiliated with a criminal gang.
Local reports initially speculated that there was a romantic connection between Honarbakhsh and the drug dealer. However, the prosecutor’s office promptly dismissed these claims as inaccurate.
Prosecutors assert that Honarbakhsh was an unfortunate victim of a stray bullet during the exchange of gunfire. As part of the ongoing investigation, autopsies will be conducted on both bodies to gather further evidence.
The Tulum temple overlooking the beach on the Yucatan Peninsula. (Photo by philippe giraud/Corbis via Getty Images)
Authorities have identified suspects involved in the shooting and are actively pursuing leads to apprehend them. However, no names have been disclosed at this time.
This tragic incident is not an isolated case in Tulum. In 2021, two tourists—a California travel blogger and a German citizen—met the same fate when rival drug dealers opened fire while they were dining at a local restaurant.
Tulum, located south of Cancun and just a few hours away from the Belizean border, has been a popular tourist destination. However, recent gang-related violence has prompted the U.S. government to issue “Do Not Travel” warnings for certain parts of Mexico, including Tulum, ahead of the spring break travel period.
It is important for travelers to remain cautious and informed about the risks associated with visiting certain areas in Mexico. The U.S. State Department did not respond to requests for comment on this particular incident.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Stay updated with the latest developments on FOXNews.com.
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1. “California woman shot dead in Mexican resort town popular with Americans”
2. “Mexican resort town popular with Americans, California woman shot dead”.