Man Dragged Into Ocean and Killed by Crocodile at Popular Resort

A dream beach getaway in Puerto Vallarta turned into a nightmare after a 28-year-old man was attacked by a crocodile, dragged into the ocean, and killed in front of a popular resort, according to police.

The horrifying attack happened Friday evening on the beach outside the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa, a well-known destination for tourists visiting Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Jalisco State Police said the victim, a Mexican national, was on the beach around 6 p.m. local time when the crocodile allegedly struck and pulled him out to sea.

Authorities launched a desperate search that stretched through the night, covering both land and water. The man’s body was finally recovered Saturday morning about 300 meters offshore, police said.

The deadly incident has triggered fresh warnings from local officials, who are urging the public to take wildlife warning signs seriously and stay out of areas where crocodiles are known to live, especially near estuaries and mangroves.

The resort told ABC News that “the safety and security of our guests and associates are our top priority,” adding that warning signs, red flags, and night patrols were already in place at the property.

“At the Marriott Puerto Vallarta we have appropriate signage, as well as night patrolling and red flags to indicate caution in the area and all were and are properly in place,” the resort said in a statement.

The resort also said it regularly reviews its safety plans and works with authorities, while staff members are trained to respond to safety issues.

“We extend our thoughts to the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time and are providing appropriate support in line with our policies,” the statement continued.

The shocking death is a grim reminder that even luxury vacation spots can come with very real dangers, especially when development and tourism sit close to wild habitats.

Local authorities are now warning beachgoers to obey posted signs and avoid entering the water in known wildlife zones, where ignoring a red flag can turn deadly in seconds.