Shark Expert Debunks Myth in Cancún Tourist Death

Cancun, Mexico — There is currently no evidence to suggest that sharks devoured a U.S. tourist who drowned days ago at Chac Mool Beach in Cancún, according to a prominent shark conservationist.

Expert Dismisses Shark Attack Claims

Ana Cecilia Gutiérrez, a well-known shark protector and recent recipient of the Ramón Bravo Prieto Medal for Ecological Protection, stated that the tourist’s body may have been consumed by other marine species native to the Caribbean Sea. She emphasized that natural decomposition could also explain the skeletal condition of the remains.

The victim, whose body washed ashore last Wednesday, had been missing for over 72 hours after being swept away while attempting to rescue a friend. Graphic images of the remains, which showed only the head intact, circulated widely on social media, fueling speculation about a shark attack.

Gutiérrez, accompanied by members of Proyecto Azul, acknowledged that Chac Mool Beach is a known habitat for sharks, including hammerhead, bull, and blacktip species. However, she stressed that no proof links the incident to sharks.

“It is a shark sighting zone, with various species present,” she said. “But as of today, there is no evidence that a shark was responsible. The victim drowned—that has been determined.”

She added, “The marine ecosystem includes countless species that could have contributed to the state of the body, not just sharks. Decomposition itself plays a significant role.”

Social Media Sparks Debate

The drowning has sparked widespread discussion online, with some users warning of shark dangers in Cancún’s Hotel Zone waters. Authorities have not confirmed any shark involvement in the incident.