The circumstances surrounding the death of Dinari McAlmont, a 23-year-old American tourist, are shrouded in disagreement between Bahamian authorities and his grieving mother.
McAlmont was discovered deceased on Paradise Island, Nassau, just hours after arriving with his parents for a family vacation on April 6th. While officials have concluded that he died due to drowning following an autopsy, Michelle McAlmont is adamant that her son suffered severe physical trauma before his death.
“When I saw the photograph they showed me, it was clear my son had been brutally beaten,” she stated. “I need justice for my baby. I need justice.”
According to a press conference held by the Royal Bahamas Police Force, “A post-mortem examination was performed, and the pathologist’s findings revealed that the deceased died as a result of drowning.” They added that toxicology reports are still pending.
Michelle McAlmont strongly disputes the official explanation, insisting on potential foul play. “There is definitely foul play,” she asserted. “You can see the signs of abuse and repeated blows.”
The sequence of events leading to his disappearance began during a family dinner at a resort when Dinari excused himself to retrieve a jacket. His parents reported him missing after being unable to locate him through cellphone tracking.
Reports suggest that police were initially searching for McAlmont due to allegations that he had acted inappropriately at the restaurant.
Michelle believes her son may have been the victim of robbery and is demanding a comprehensive investigation, including the release of surveillance footage from The Reef at Atlantis resort where they were staying.
“I expect nothing less than a thorough and complete investigation,” she said.
The McAlmont family departed their home in Bowie, Maryland (approximately 20 miles northeast of Washington D.C.), anticipating a relaxing getaway. The Reef at Atlantis issued a statement expressing their sadness over the loss: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of our guests. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. We are fully cooperating with the authorities as they conduct their investigation.”
Travel Advisories
- The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for the Bahamas, alongside Cuba, Dominican Republic, Netherlands Antilles and Turks and Caicos.
- This advisory cautions tourists to be mindful of increased safety and security risks.
The family is seeking answers and accountability as they grapple with the tragic loss.
