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Mexican prosecutors are downplaying reports of a possible serial killer in the tourist hotspot of Puerto Vallarta — following widespread coverage of the deaths of three women who were found partially naked.
The women, who were in their early to mid 30s and had tattoos, were discovered within the space of 11 days.
However, prosecutors launched a probe and revealed, “At the moment, the preliminary information does not indicate that they are linked,” Mexican outlet Reporte Diario reported.
Three women were found in different locations in Puerto Vallarta within 11 days, heightening fears of a potential serial killer. Universal Images Group via Getty ImagesOfficials remain tight-lipped on the status of the investigations, but have vowed, “All lines of investigation are being exhausted to find the persons or persons responsible.”
The investigation is being escalated as per the state of Jalisco’s policy on women who are found dead.
One woman was found near the well-known viewpoint Rancho El Piruli on May 10, with another found by a highway near Mismaloya – south of Puerto Vallarta – five days later.
The woman was found wearing just a black top, black lycra shorts, and one sneaker, according to Vallarta Daily. There was a bruise on her left eyebrow, according to the outlet.
Investigators are probing whether the woman was assaulted or if she had just been left at the location – around half a mile from the five-star Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta hotel.
The most recent body was discovered on a dirt road in the Parque Las Palmas neighborhood on May 21.
No identities have been confirmed, but local reports suggest the third woman could be missing 22-year-old Elizabeth Martinez from Mexico.
Authorities release a missing persons poster for 22-year-old Elizabeth Martinez. Facebook/State of Mexico Missing Persons Search CommissionTattoos were located on the neck, hand and arm, and consisted of a skull, a woman with horns, and a name. Her body showed signs of violence, Mexico News Daily reported.
The shock discoveries come just weeks before Jalisco is thrust into the limelight as a World Cup host state.
Four games will be played at the state-of-the-art Estadio Akron, which is located in the state’s capital Guadalajara – around 190 miles from Puerto Vallarta.
US travelers heading to Mexico are urged to exercise caution, according to the State Department.
Jalisco is under a Level 3 warning, which means Americans should reconsider travel due to the risk of terrorism, crime and kidnapping.
Authorities have warned of the risk of violence from cartel groups.
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