The British vacationers fell sick during their stay on the idyllic African island
The relatives of four British tourists who tragically died after contracting a severe stomach illness while vacationing have initiated legal proceedings. Attorneys have confirmed their representation of the grieving families, as well as over 1,500 other tourists who reported similar symptoms.
All four individuals fell ill during their stay in Cape Verde, located off the west coast of Africa. They passed away shortly after returning to the UK, still suffering from symptoms.
The deceased include Elena Walsh, 64, from Birmingham; Karen Pooley, 64, from Gloucestershire; Mark Ashley, 55, from Bedfordshire; and a 56-year-old man. These individuals are among six Britons who have died following their trips to Cape Verde since January 2023.
The law firm Irwin Mitchell is representing the families, who are seeking damages from package holiday provider Tui. The firm said investigations into the deaths are “ongoing”.
For Emma Ashley and her husband Mark, the holiday had been meant as a chance to unwind. Instead, it ended in tragedy. Emma said her family were in “complete shock” after his death.
“We went to Cape Verde expecting a relaxing break, but Mark became violently ill and never recovered,” she said.
The couple were just three days into their holiday in October 2023 when Mr Ashley began experiencing stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and extreme lethargy.
Mrs Ashley had booked the trip through Tui at a cost of more than £3,000. She said that the couple stayed at the five-star Riu Palace Santa Maria resort in Sal, and raised concerns about hygiene standards at the hotel.
