Authorities said the 28-year-old victim was dragged into the sea near a resort beach.
PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico — A 28-year-old man died after a crocodile attacked him at a Puerto Vallarta beach and dragged him into the sea Friday evening, authorities in Jalisco said.
The attack happened about 6 p.m. on the beach in front of the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa. Officials said the victim was a Mexican man, but his name was not immediately released. His body was found Saturday by the Mexican Navy.
Authorities described the death as a “highly regrettable” and “unusual and isolated event.” The crocodile was later captured nearby. Officials did not immediately say what led to the attack or whether the victim had been swimming, walking near the water or doing another activity when the animal struck.
Witnesses staying at the resort said they heard screams from the beach and first thought someone was caught in a rip current. Jamie Yetter, her fiance, Chris Bury, and her teenage daughter were near the pool when the commotion began.
Yetter said Bury ran toward the water and tried to help. Bury said he climbed into a kayak without paddles as people searched for anything they could use in the rescue attempt. He said the victim was pulled under as he reached the water.
The resort said warning signs, red flags and night patrols were in place at the time of the attack. Marriott Puerto Vallarta said it was offering support according to its policies and extended its thoughts to the victim and his loved ones.
Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast, has beach and lagoon areas where crocodiles are known to live. Local authorities have not announced any additional restrictions tied to the fatal attack.
The investigation remained active Monday. Officials had not released the victim’s name or announced further findings about the moments before the attack.
Author note: Last updated Monday, June 29, 2026.