Gun battle on Los Cabos highway leaves 1 American citizen dead, 7 others injured

An American was killed late Saturday and seven others were injured as a result of a running shootout between the Mexican military and armed suspects in Baja California Sur.

The incident began around 11 p.m. when members of Mexico’s army responded to reports of gunfire on the Transpeninsular Federal Highway north of Los Cabos.

When confronted by the soldiers, the convoy of armed civilians opened fire, prompting an intense gun battle.

The situation escalated into car chases and roadblocks at various points in the small village of Santa Anita which lasted more than an hour. Videos shared by residents on social media include the sound of bursts of gunfire from high-caliber weapons and calls for the population to stay indoors.

Five civilians traveling on the highway were caught in the crossfire, including the American, a 31-year-old man from California, who died from his injuries.

The other injured civilians are: a 35-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman, both from Los Cabos; a 14-year-old teenager from San José del Cabo; and a 65-year-old woman who suffered serious leg injuries.

Two soldiers were also wounded. One of them, a 20-year-old, remains in serious condition due to life-threatening gunshot wounds, while the other, a 25-year-old, suffered injuries that are not considered life-threatening.

After the confrontation, the authorities seized four vehicles in addition to five long guns, rifles, loaded magazines of 7.62×39 caliber and 5.56 millimeters, a grenade launcher and tactical gear.

In a follow-up operation conducted by the state police, two suspects were arrested in San José del Cabo and a cartel safe house was raided, leading to the seizure of more tactical gear, drugs and weapons.

By early Sunday, Baja California Sur Governor Víctor Manuel Castro and Los Cabos Mayor Christian Agúndez were leading an extraordinary meeting of the Regional Security Council, during which it was agreed to strengthen the operational presence of the Navy, the National Guard and local security agencies. 

“The safety of the public is a priority and we will not lower our guard so that Baja California Sur continues to be a safe place,” Governor Castro said.

The state Security Council on Monday said it is maintaining search and surveillance operations in the area with a special focus on protecting tourist corridors and areas with high visitor traffic.

The Security Council said it is in contact with U.S. diplomatic officials and is providing consular assistance to the family of the American.

With reports from Aristegui Noticias, Debate and Latinus

The post Gun battle on Los Cabos highway leaves 1 American citizen dead, 7 others injured appeared first on Mexico News Daily



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