Exclusive: W5 Probes Cartel’s Role in Canadian Woman’s Murder Mystery
W5’s latest investigation delves into the mysterious murder of Canadian woman Kiara Agnew in Mexico. The program, hosted by Avery Haines, traces her last hours and questions possible Cartel involvement. Agnew was found dead on March 3, 2023, while celebrating her 24th birthday at the Grand Sunset Princess Hotel in Playa del Carmen.
Incident Overview
Kiara Agnew was discovered brutally beaten at the hotel, with her boyfriend Ryan Friesen beside her. He was arrested and charged as the sole suspect. However, a judge-only trial acquitted him in September 2024. Friesen has always maintained his innocence, raising questions about the true circumstances of Agnew’s death.
Timeline of Events
- Date: March 3, 2023
- Location: Grand Sunset Princess Hotel, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- Occasion: Kiara’s 24th birthday
According to the investigation, Agnew and Friesen left the hotel bar around midnight. After a purported argument, Friesen claimed he fell asleep and found Agnew missing upon waking at 2:30 a.m. He later stated that he heard her screams and found her in the laundry room, where she alleged she had been raped.
Discovery of the Bodies
A hotel cleaner discovered the bodies at 2:55 a.m. He reported significant bloodstains and evidence of a struggle near the laundry room. The door, which Friesen claimed was locked, was partially ajar. Notably, the cleaner observed that Friesen had blood stains on his clothing and limbs.
Possible Motives: Cartel Involvement?
During the investigation, Friesen suggested that Agnew may have been targeted by the Sinaloa Cartel due to a financial dispute with the resort. This theory aligns with known cartel practices in the area, where local businesses often pay a “cartel tax” to operate safely.
However, W5 approached a member of the Sinaloa Cartel who dismissed Friesen’s claims. The cartel member insisted that such violent acts occur openly and are not hidden within resorts.
Legal Developments
The not guilty verdict in Friesen’s case is currently under review. An independent magistrate is expected to issue a decision that could overturn the verdict, leading to further legal implications for Friesen.
The Deputy Prosecutor, Aroshi Lugo Arana, expressed confidence that sufficient evidence would lead to Friesen being declared guilty. He may face sentencing for what she described as a “deeply deplorable act.” This investigation raises significant questions about justice and accountability in Kiara Agnew’s tragic murder.
