Mexican Mayor Assassinated During Day of the Dead
Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez, mayor of Uruapan in Michoacán, was fatally shot Saturday night in a public square while taking part in Day of the Dead celebrations, one of Mexico's most significant holidays.
According to state prosecutor Carlos Torres Piña, the mayor was seriously injured and died later in the hospital.
The attack occurred in the city's historic center before dozens of spectators attending the traditional festival. An unidentified gunman fired seven shots before being killed on the spot by security forces.
- A city council member and the mayor's bodyguard were also injured in the shooting.
- Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch stated the weapon used is linked to recent conflicts between rival criminal groups in the region.
- Michoacán remains one of Mexico's most violent states due to ongoing cartel wars over drug trafficking and agricultural areas.
The following day, hundreds of Uruapan residents dressed in black carried the mayor's coffin, chanting, "Justice! Out with Morena!", referring to the ruling party of President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Author's summary: The assassination of Uruapan's mayor during a major cultural event highlights Michoacán’s ongoing cartel violence and deep political frustration among citizens.