Shooting Incident Reported at Teotihuacan in Mexico - Albuquerque - 1

A shooting incident occurred at the Teotihuacan archaeological site in Mexico, resulting in casualties, including tourists, and raising concerns about local security.

Especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosting approaching, issues of tourist safety have resurfaced.

According to reports, the incident took place around 11:30 AM on the 20th. A man opened fire on tourists at the Teotihuacan site before taking his own life.

One Canadian tourist was killed, and a total of six people were injured.

Among the injured, four were confirmed to have gunshot wounds. The nationalities include two Colombians, one Russian, and one Canadian.

The other two were reported to have been injured while fleeing the gunfire, falling down the stairs. The incident caused significant chaos as it occurred during a peak time for tourists.

Witnesses stated that at the time, dozens of tourists were near the top of the 'Pyramid of the Moon,' and the suspect began shooting from the stairs below.

A tour guide reported, "People started to drop to the ground or hurriedly descend the stairs, and the shooter continued to fire at those trying to escape."

Videos posted on social media also showed the armed suspect and terrified tourists fleeing the scene.

Police recovered one handgun, live ammunition, and a knife from the scene, and they cordoned off the area around the archaeological site and began an investigation immediately.

The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Haso, who reportedly had a fascination with past mass shooting perpetrators.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences to the victims and their families shortly after the incident, stating that they are working closely with the Canadian embassy.

He stated, "This incident is very tragic, and I extend my deepest condolences to the victims and their families."

Teotihuacan is an ancient city representing pre-Aztec civilization in central Mexico, estimated to have housed around 200,000 people around 500 AD.

This site, centered around the 'Pyramid of the Sun' and the 'Pyramid of the Moon,' is a major tourist destination in Mexico, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The incident is particularly shocking as it occurred at a cultural heritage site densely populated with tourists.

Experts point out that with international events approaching, there is an increasing need for Mexican authorities to strengthen security at tourist sites and address gun control issues simultaneously.