Deadly Attack in Mexico Highlights Escalating Cartel Violence

A recent attack during a religious festival in Irapuato, a city in central Mexico, resulted in the deaths of 11 people and injuries to at least 20 others. The shooting occurred during celebrations marking the Nativity of John the Baptist. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people rushing the wounded to hospitals.

Among the deceased was a 17-year-old, along with eight adult men and two women. Authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and are providing psychological support to those affected. The incident was condemned by President Claudia Sheinbaum, who described it as a "confrontation" and initiated an investigation.

The state of Guanajuato, where Irapuato is located, is a major industrial center and tourist destination, but it is also the deadliest state in Mexico due to gang-related violence. The violence is largely attributed to turf wars between criminal organizations, including the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation cartel.

Criminal violence in Mexico has claimed approximately 480,000 lives since 2006, with over 120,000 people reported missing. Guanajuato recorded the highest number of murders of any Mexican state last year, exceeding 3,000. Recent incidents in the state include the discovery of 17 bodies in an abandoned house, the killing of seven people, including children, and a street shooting that resulted in the deaths of five women and three men.