At least 11 people were killed and more than 20 others injured after gunmen opened fire during a religious festival in Irapuato, a city in Mexico’s Guanajuato state, on Tuesday night. The attack occurred during celebrations for the Nativity of John the Baptist, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
Chaos and Panic as Shooting Breaks Out
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene as bullets flew through the crowd.
“It was chaos. People put the injured in their cars and rushed them to the hospital,” one witness told AFP, requesting anonymity for safety.
Bloodstains and bullet holes marked the festival grounds. Authorities confirmed that the deceased included a 17-year-old, eight men, and two women. The state prosecutor’s office has vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
Security Forces Launch Manhunt, Psychological Aid Provided
Following the attack, security forces began a manhunt for the gunmen. Local authorities have also mobilized mental health teams to provide psychological support to victims’ families and witnesses traumatized by the violence.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the massacre, calling it “deplorable,” and confirmed that a full investigation is underway. During her morning press briefing, she referred to the incident as a “confrontation,” though she gave no further details.
Festival Turns Tragic as Panic Spreads
Footage shared on social media captured the moment gunfire erupted. Attendees who had gathered to dance and enjoy the traditional celebration could be seen running for cover in panic.
Guanajuato Governor Libia Dennise also condemned the violence and offered condolences to the victims’ families. She pledged full support from the state government to ensure justice is served.
Guanajuato: Industry, Tourism—and Violence
Despite its reputation for industry and tourism, Guanajuato remains Mexico’s most violent state, plagued by deadly gang warfare. Ongoing turf wars between the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) have fueled widespread violence in the region.
Mexico’s Ongoing Security Crisis
Official data shows that Guanajuato reported over 3,000 homicides in 2023—the highest of any Mexican state. Nationally, since 2006, nearly 480,000 people have been killed, and over 120,000 remain missing, largely due to cartel-related violence.
The massacre in Irapuato adds to the growing number of mass killings in Mexico, underscoring the government’s struggle to contain the power and brutality of organized crime groups.
