Maria del Mar Perdomo
10 Sep 2025
Santa Marta, Magdalena (Colombia)
Not reported
Maria died suddenly in suspicious circumstances. Authorities are investigating if she was a victim of scopolamine poisoning, which has been seen in cases of robbery in the region.
The death of María del Mar Perdomo, a renowned trans designer and advocate for inclusive fashion, has caused shock in Santa Marta and her hometown, Neiva.
The circumstances of her death, marked by suspicion of scopolamine poisoning and the possibility of robbery, have prompted an exhaustive investigation by the authorities.
The designer's discovery occurred in the context of an event seeking to highlight diversity and inclusion in fashion, causes to which Perdomo dedicated a good part of her career. According to preliminary reports from people close to her, the main hypothesis points to scopolamine poisoning that may have triggered a sudden heart attack.
This line of investigation is relevant given the history of tourists affected by the same modus operandi in the region. However, authorities have emphasized that the exact cause of death can only be determined after a medical examiner's report.
Along with the poisoning hypothesis, the Santa Marta Metropolitan Police have not ruled out the possibility of robbery. An investigator from the agency explained that they are reviewing security cameras at the hotel and surrounding areas, in addition to reconstructing the victim's final hours to determine whether third-party involvement was involved. The investigation remains open, and authorities have urged caution in light of the circulation of unconfirmed reports.
A travel advisory on scopolamine poisioning published by the U.S. Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) in 2012 stated:
"One common and particularly dangerous method that criminals use to rob a victim is through the use of drugs. Scopolamine is most often administered in liquid or powder form in foods and beverages. The majority of these incidents occur in nightclubs and bars. It is recommended that to avoid becoming a victim of scopolamine, a person should never accept food or beverages offered by strangers or new acquaintances, nor leave food or beverages unattended in their presence. Victims of scopolamine or other drugs should seek immediate medical attention."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7-beUrLhVU
