Huitzilac, Mexico – The mayor of Huitzilac, Morelos, is seeking assistance after eight men were fatally shot at a beer depot, leaving the community in mourning. Mayor Rafael Vargas Muñoz took to social media to condemn the violence and call for support from the federal and state governments, as well as a swift resolution from the Attorney General’s Office to bring those responsible to justice.
Security camera footage aired by various Mexican news outlets captured the harrowing moment when gunmen drove by the business and opened fire on customers, resulting in the deaths of four men at the scene and four more at nearby hospitals early Sunday. The Morelos Attorney General’s Office has launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators behind this tragic incident.
The recent spate of violence in Huitzilac and neighboring Tres Marias has raised concerns, with three multiple killings reported since May 1. Mexican officials have pointed to the proliferation of drug cartel activity in Morelos in recent years, with reports indicating the presence of between six and fourteen criminal groups, including the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Addressing the escalating violence, the Morelos AG’s Office issued a plea to the business community to refrain from paying “protection” or extortion money to criminal gangs, urging them to cooperate with law enforcement agencies instead. In a related development, the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory advising Americans to reconsider visiting Morelos due to the escalating crime rates in the region.
The community of Huitzilac remains on edge following the tragic incident, with residents calling for swift action to ensure their safety and bring an end to the cycle of violence plaguing the region. Collaborative efforts between local authorities and law enforcement agencies will be crucial in addressing the root causes of the violence and restoring peace to the community.