Authorities in Puerto Vallarta -- one of the regions set to host 2026 World Cup matches throughout June -- are investigating fears that a possible serial killer may be behind the deaths of three women found within an 11-day period in May, according to a report from the New York Post.
The report said the women were discovered in separate incidents in Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations and a popular vacation spot for travelers from the United States and Canada.
Authorities have not officially confirmed that a serial killer is involved, but similarities between the cases have reportedly raised concerns among residents and officials in the area.
According to the New York Post, the first body was found on May 10, with two more women later discovered dead over the following days. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine whether the deaths are connected.
Possible Serial Killer Fears Hit Mexico World Cup Region
The case has attracted wider attention because the state of Jalisco is also preparing to host matches during the FIFA World Cup.
Mexico is set to co-host the tournament alongside the United States and Canada, with Guadalajara selected as one of the host cities.
While Puerto Vallarta itself is not hosting any World Cup matches, its location within Jalisco has placed the region under additional focus ahead of the tournament.
Concerns surrounding safety and security in the state have already been discussed in recent months due to ongoing violence linked to criminal groups in parts of the region.
Guadalajara is scheduled to host four group-stage matches during the World Cup at Estadio Akron. The fixtures currently listed include South Korea vs Czechia on June 11, Mexico vs South Korea on June 18, Colombia vs. Playoff Winner 1 on June 23, and Uruguay vs Spain on June 26.
Photo by Hector Vivas - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
The city is expected to welcome large numbers of international supporters during the tournament, making security in the wider Jalisco region an important topic ahead of the competition.
