The family of a Mexican tourist who died after receiving an electric shock at a well-known Puerto Vallarta landmark are demanding justice from local authorities.
According to witnesses, Maribel Pacheco, 31, went into convulsions after receiving a strong electoral discharge after touching one of the metallic sculptures in the famous Rotunda del Mar on the Vallarta boardwalk (malecon).
Medics administered first aid and then took her in an ambulance to the CMQ hospital. News reports differ as to whether Pacheco died at the scene, in the ambulance or at the hospital, although the police report suggests the first scenario is the correct one.
Although Pacheco’s body was returned to her family, forensic experts in Vallarta were unable to determine a clear cause of death and have sent specimens to Guadalajara for further analysis. Pacheco’s family have not been told when these results will be made public.Pacheco’s 23-year-old sister Rocio, who was with her when she died, told local reporters that her sibling was in good health and that she certainly died as a result of the discharge of electricity and not of a heart attack, as some reports have suggested.
Pacheco was a math teacher from Tultitlan, State of Mexico and part of a group of 40 who were enjoying the new year in Vallarta.
Since the incident, the popular malecon statue created by Guadalajara artist Alejandro Colunga has been taped off by police.
Meanwhile, some city councilors are calling for the entire malecon to be closed and given a meticulous safety examination.
The malecon recently underwent massive renovations, which included new electrical installations throughout its length. It reopened to the public in late November.