A popular Mexican beach destination frequented by millions of American tourists is facing growing fears of a possible serial killer after three women were found dead within just 11 days.
Authorities in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — long considered one of the country’s safest resort cities — are now investigating potential links between the killings after a third victim was discovered in the Parque Las Palmas neighborhood, according to reporting from Mexico News Daily.
The Daily Mail reported the disturbing series of deaths began on May 10, when the body of a woman believed to be between 30 and 35 years old was discovered near Rancho El Piruli in the Chimborazo area. Just five days later, another woman’s body was found near a roadside stop along the highway to Mismaloya.
The latest victim was found on Thursday on a dirt road in an isolated area of the city.
Investigators say all three women were found partially undressed and had tattoos, prompting police to examine whether the murders may be connected.
Officials have not publicly classified the case as a serial killing investigation, but authorities are reportedly reviewing surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and police reports to determine whether a single suspect may be responsible.
According to The Daily Mail, the most recent victim had distinctive tattoos on her neck, arm, and hand, including images of a skull and a horned woman. Police believe the markings could help identify the victim.
Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media suggest the woman may be 22-year-old Elizabeth Martinez, who disappeared in April from the State of Mexico. The country’s missing persons commission reportedly noted similarities between Martinez’s tattoos and those found on the victim.
Authorities have not officially confirmed her identity.
The investigation comes as Mexico continues to struggle with escalating cartel violence that has increasingly spilled into areas previously considered relatively safe for tourists.
Earlier this year, Puerto Vallarta and surrounding regions were rattled after Mexican federal forces launched an operation targeting Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
According to reports cited by The Sun, cartel members responded with widespread violence, setting vehicles and businesses on fire across multiple states. Shootouts between cartel gunmen and Mexican security forces reportedly left at least 70 people dead, including members of Mexico’s National Guard.
Terrifying footage circulated online showing panicked travelers running through Guadalajara airport as armed cartel members reportedly moved through the area during the unrest.
Puerto Vallarta has long been marketed as a safe haven for international travelers, especially Americans seeking beach vacations and luxury resorts. The city reportedly welcomed more than six million visitors in 2025, according to Vallarta Daily.
But the recent killings are likely to intensify concerns about safety in Mexico just months before the country co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mexican officials have announced plans to deploy nearly 100,000 police officers, soldiers, and National Guard members to secure World Cup venues in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara when the tournament begins on June 11.
For now, investigators in Puerto Vallarta continue searching for answers as fears mount that a violent predator may be targeting women in one of Mexico’s most heavily visited tourist destinations.
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