The United States Embassy Issues Alert to its Citizens in Medellín
Following a spike in violence, the US embassy in Colombia issued a warning to its citizens, urging them to exercise extreme caution when visiting the city of Medellín. According to the advisory, between November 1 and December 31, 2023, the embassy learned of eight deaths of Americans in the capital of Antioquia under “suspicious” circumstances.
The warning cited “possible drugs, robbery and overdoses, and the use of online dating applications” as contributing factors to the deaths. It specifically highlighted the use of dating apps, urging Americans to refrain from using such platforms in Medellín due to reports of robberies and murders.
The deaths detailed in the advisory include those of Johnny Jerome, Michael Eugene, and Andrew Shoyoye, who were injured after a chimney exploded in an apartment, as well as Jeffrey Hutson Hewett, who was found dead with multiple stab wounds. The embassy also mentioned the murders of Marcel Petreanu, Mike Smith, Tou Ger Xiong, and Phillip Ryan Mullins, attributing them to violent circumstances.
The alert underlines the gravity of the situation, warning Americans to prioritize safety and be extra cautious when participating in activities outside of their place of residence.
As more information comes to light about this situation, it is essential for visitors to heed this warning and take the necessary precautions while staying vigilant during their time in Medellín.