Investigations and autopsies have begun on three American tourists who were found dead at Sandals resort in the Bahamas last week.
Chief superintendent at the Royal Bahamas Police Force Paul Rolle said that samples from the bodies have been flown to the US for testing along with samples of the rooms and surrounding areas where the bodies were found. He noted that police “really want to know what caused this”.
The three American tourists have been identified as husband and wife Michael and Robbie Phillips from Tennessee and Vincent Paul Chiarella from Florida. All three were aged in their 60s with Mr Chiarella’s wife, Donnis, having been taken to hospital after also been found in a critical condition, however authorities say she is now recovering at a Miami hospital.
Their son Austin Chiarella spoke to ABC news saying that his mum “woke up and my dad was laying there on the floor, and she couldn’t move. Her legs and arms were swollen, and she couldn’t move”.
How all three people died is still yet to be known.
Police were called by hotel staff early in the morning after they discovered the unresponsive body of a man plus a female, who was taken to hospital. However, upon arrival were alerted to an additional two bodies in another villa in which police stated that there appeared to be “signs of convulsion”.
Chief superintendent Rolle said that all of the victims were feeling sick the night before and had all seen a doctor. Several guests told NBC News that there was a “strong odour” of insecticide within the resorts ground, however police have not speculated on the cause of deaths.
Caroline Phillips daughter of Michael and Robbie told CNN that it’s a difficult time for the family.
“Our hearts are grieving and broken but full of hope.”
“We know our mom and dad are experiencing fullness of joy in our heavenly Father’s presence. We already miss them terribly. Our parents left a legacy of faith in Jesus and generously loved their family and friends.”
Results from the autopsy are expected at the end of this week.