NOORD, Aruba — A joyful vacation turned into a heartbreaking tragedy early Sunday morning at the luxury St. Regis Aruba Resort, where American newlyweds Boris and Cristina Jozic were found dead in what local police are treating as a domestic murder-suicide. The scene has left friends, family and fellow travelers struggling to make sense of the loss.
Police and emergency responders were called to the five-star resort on Palm Beach just before 9 a.m. after reports that someone had fallen from a balcony. When officers arrived, they found a U.S. man lifeless on the ground near the hotel. Nearby medical personnel pronounced him dead.
Hotel staff and police then went to the couple’s room and discovered the body of a woman believed to be the man’s partner. Neither appeared to have survived the incident. Authorities have not released detailed forensic findings yet, but initial investigative reports suggest that the man may have jumped from an upper floor.
The victims were later identified as Boris Jozic, a well-known figure in the fitness community from Morton Grove, Illinois, and his wife, Cristina Jozic. The couple had arrived in Aruba the day before to celebrate their recent marriage at the luxurious resort. Social media posts and tributes from friends describe Boris as a dedicated trainer and mentor who inspired many to pursue health and confidence. Cristina was remembered by loved ones as warm, supportive and full of joy.
News of their deaths spread quickly online, with friends and clients sharing memories and condolences. Many recalled Boris’s encouragement in the gym, his passion for discipline, and the genuine interest he took in people’s personal growth. Tributes to Cristina highlighted her kindness and the happiness she brought into others’ lives.
Local police have described the situation as “tragic and unusual” and assure the public that there is no ongoing danger to resort guests or the wider community. Parts of the resort were briefly restricted while investigators gathered evidence, but those areas have since reopened. Authorities are continuing their inquiry and working with the families to provide updates as they become available.
Fellow travelers and residents of Aruba have expressed deep sympathy. Some have shared accounts of the distress experienced by guests who witnessed the aftermath, while others are struggling with the shock of such a violent end at a place meant for celebration. The full circumstances surrounding what happened remain under investigation, and officials are urging respect for the families’ privacy during this difficult time.
