Colombian authorities are searching for two women last seen leaving an Airbnb, where actor Alex Araya was found dead earlier this month.
Araya, a Chilean national, arrived in Medellín on June 1. He went on a Tinder date with a woman on June 6, his brother Eduardo Araya informed the Chilean news outlet La Tercera. At 11:30 pm, Araya entered the home with the suspects. They emerged two hours later.
A woman hired for cleaning services visited the home on June 7 around noon, discovering the 42-year-old lying face down.
Eduardo Araya reported that the two women stole his brother’s credit cards and cell phone, using them to pay for Uber rides and to make purchases at a jewelry store.
“There are more people involved,'” he reasoned. “They are part of a group that is dedicated to doing these types of things.”
Alex Araya’s Death is Part of a Disturbing Pattern in Medellín
The cause of Alex’s death remains undisclosed, but his brother suspects he was drugged—potentially with burundanga, also known as scopolamine. This odorless, tasteless substance can induce unconsciousness for up to 24 hours or more. In larger doses, it can be fatal.
He showed no visible signs of trauma, and his body was discovered in a condition similar to other tourists who have been killed in the area.
Alex Araya is the 29th tourist to lose their life in Medellín this year alone.
In January, the United States Embassy in Colombia issued a warning to travelers about using dating apps. This advisory followed the deaths of eight Americans in Medellín between November 1 and December 31, 2023.
The embassy warned that some deaths might involve drugging, robbery, overdoses, and online dating apps. Meanwhile, visitors are advised to meet in public places and avoid isolated locations like residences or hotel rooms.
“One of the most popular methods to target unsuspecting individuals is through online dating applications. Individuals match with dates and there is an agreement to meet,” the US Embassy in Bogota, Columbia explained.
“This meeting can either initially start in a public place or at the residence/hotel of the victim. Eventually, a sedative is introduced to the victim, leaving them disoriented and sedated so they are easily robbed. “