Mexico investigates possible serial killer connection after three women found dead in Puerto Vallarta

Authorities in the Mexican resort of Puerto Vallarta are investigating whether a possible serial killer could be connected to the deaths of three women whose bodies were discovered in separate areas of the city in recent weeks, the Mexico News Daily reports.

Third body discovered near Parque Las Palmas

The latest case was reported Thursday morning (May 21) when a woman’s body was found on a dirt road near the Parque Las Palmas neighborhood at Camino Viejo and Mojoneras.

Investigators are now comparing the circumstances of her death with two earlier cases already under investigation.

The first victim was reportedly discovered near Rancho El Pirulí in the Chimborazo region on May 10. A few days later, the body of another woman was found at a stop by the road to Mismaloya.

The similarities are causing concern among investigators

According to preliminary findings cited by Mexico News Daily, all three victims were women between the ages of 30 and 35. Their bodies were found in isolated or little-visited areas on the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta.

Authorities said none of the victims were initially officially identified.

Investigators also noted several similarities between the cases. Each woman reportedly had multiple tattoos and was found in a similar state of partial undress, prompting authorities to investigate whether the killings may have followed a pattern.

A distinctive tattoo can help identify the victim

Officials said the woman found Thursday had several distinctive tattoos that investigators hope could help determine her identity.

Among the marks was an image of a horned woman with a hand covering her mouth, a skull tattoo and a woman’s name tattooed on her right forearm. Other identifying marks were reportedly found on her neck, hand and arm.

On Friday (May 22), anecdotal reports suggested the victim could be a 22-year-old woman from the state of México who was reported missing in late April.

Information released by the Mexico State Commission on Missing Persons reportedly described the missing woman as having tattoos matching some of those found on the victim.

Authorities in Jalisco have not officially confirmed the identity. However, reports indicate that relatives of the missing women may travel to Puerto Vallarta to find out if the victim is their family member.

Authorities are investigating under femicide protocols

The woman discovered Thursday reportedly showed signs of violence, prompting authorities to launch an investigation under homicide and femicide protocols.

Investigators are also reportedly looking into whether the victims could have been killed elsewhere before their bodies were abandoned in Puerto Vallarta.

According to Mexico News Daily, no relatives or acquaintances initially came forward to identify or claim any of the women, despite the discoveries occurring within weeks.

Officials caution against speculation

The cases have sparked concern among residents and tourists, and rumors of a possible serial killer are spreading on social media.

But authorities cautioned that the investigation was still in its early stages and stressed that no formal conclusion had been reached on whether the cases were related.

Prosecutors and local police are reviewing forensic evidence, surveillance footage and police reports associated with each case as investigators work to determine whether Puerto Vallarta is dealing with a repeat offender or a series of unrelated crimes.