The mayor of Uruapan in Mexico’s Michoacán state, Carlos Manzo Rodríguez, was killed in a public attack during Day of the Dead celebrations. The assault, described as “kamikaze style,” occurred despite the mayor having national-guard protection.
The attack unfolded in the central plaza of Uruapan when two gunmen opened fire, fatally wounding Manzo. Authorities reported that ten people were injured during the incident.
In the weeks before his death, Manzo had publicly warned that confronting the cartels required courage and that he did not want to be just another murdered mayor. His outspoken stance against organized crime had made him a high-profile target.
The assassination underscores the risks faced by local officials in regions heavily influenced by drug cartels. The attack’s timing, during a public festival, highlights the brazenness of the perpetrators and raises concerns about security at cultural events.
Following the killing, federal and state authorities increased security measures in Uruapan and throughout Michoacán. Residents have expressed outrage, calling for justice and stronger protections for local officials. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining possible links between the attack and organized crime networks.
