Preliminary reports released on Tuesday confirmed the death of a foreign tourist, identified as Moira Clayton Finney, in an apparent drowning incident on a beach located on Saona Island. As of the latest update, local law enforcement and investigation agencies have not released additional specific details about the conditions and events that led to the tragedy.
According to currently confirmed information, Finney was a guest staying at the Riu Palace Hotel in the popular Dominican tourism hub of Punta Cana. Witness and initial records indicate the tourist was alone at the time of the incident.
Shortly after news of the guest’s death became public, parent company RIU Hotels & Resorts released an official statement extending its deepest condolences to Finney’s family and loved ones. The hospitality chain confirmed it has opened full lines of communication with investigating authorities and stands ready to provide any support requested throughout the probe.
In its statement, RIU was careful to clarify that the fatal incident took place entirely outside of the company’s owned or operated properties, services, and designated operational zones. The chain emphasized the event has no connection to its on-site hotel operations, and expressed regret over any premature efforts to link the tragedy to activities unrelated to the hotel group’s work in the region.
RIU additionally used the statement to reaffirm its unwavering confidence in Punta Cana’s standing as a top-tier global tourism destination. The company highlighted the region’s long track record of upholding strict standards for quality service, warm hospitality, and visitor safety, noting its decades-long presence and investment in the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector.
Looking ahead, the hotel chain reiterated its core commitment to protecting the well-being of all guests across its properties, and confirmed it will maintain full cooperation with authorities as the investigation into Finney’s death moves forward, supplying any information or aid that investigators require.