A teenage birthday party ended in tragedy on Friday after a gunmen opened fire on the crowd, leaving eight dead and 26 injured.
The State Attorney General’s Office (FGJES) in Sonora, Mexico revealed that the incident occurred in the municipality of Cajeme, one of the most violent areas in Mexico.
The main target of the attack was identified as Leonardo Vega Arellano, also known as ‘El Wacho’ or ‘El Soldado,’ an alleged leader of a criminal group, police say.
Arellano had active arrest warrants for charges including attempted femicide, qualified homicide, and criminal association.
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The assailants arrived in a pickup-type vehicle and unleashed a hail of bullets, killing Arellano and many others attending the 15-year-old’s birthday party.
Authorities confirmed that three men and three women were among the victims. An additional 26 people sustained injuries, with four in serious condition.
Two of the seriously injured have undergone surgery, one is currently in the operating room, and the last is awaiting surgery. The remaining injuries are reported as non-life-threatening.
The FGJES stated that the four suspects linked to the armed attack were swiftly arrested and will face trial. The apprehended individuals were found in possession of assault rifles, drugs, and tactical equipment.
The vehicle used in the assault had been reported stolen on November 11 in Sinaloa.
Governor of Sonora, Alfonso Durazo, commended the state security committee for their prompt action, emphasizing their commitment to protecting the citizens of Sonora.
The authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full extent of responsibilities in the tragic incident.
The massacre adds to the grim statistics of violence in Mexico, particularly in the month of December.
Cajeme has witnessed at least 50 homicides in December 2023, making it one of the municipalities with the highest murder rates. Additionally, a dozen people have been reported missing in the region.
The alarming escalation of violent incidents, including kidnappings and mass disappearances, underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing criminal activities in various parts of the country. The Mexican government remains under pressure to implement effective measures to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
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