Deadly Attack Strikes Religious Festival in Guanajuato
Tragedy unfolded overnight in Irapuato, Guanajuato, where a mass shooting at a religious festival claimed the lives of at least 12 people, including a 17-year-old minor. Authorities confirmed that an additional 20 individuals were hospitalized due to gunshot wounds during the incident.
Chaos During St. John the Baptist Celebration
The shooting occurred amid evening festivities dedicated to St. John the Baptist, a prominent Catholic holiday in Mexico. Revelers were dancing and enjoying the celebrations in the streets when gunmen abruptly opened fire. Videos circulating on social media show panicked attendees fleeing the scene to avoid the hail of bullets.
Government Response and Public Outcry
In response, the Mexican President expressed deep regret and assured that the matter was under thorough investigation. “It is very unfortunate what happened. An investigation is underway,” she said. Meanwhile, voices across social media have condemned the attack, framing it as an extreme display of terrorism rather than mere insecurity.
Violence Plagues Guanajuato
Guanajuato has long been marked by escalating violence. Only last month, a similar attack resulted in the deaths of seven people at a party organized by the Catholic Church in the same state. This most recent shooting highlights the persistent dangers facing communities holding public gatherings in the region.
Uncertainty Around Footage Circulating Online
A video purportedly showing the moments before the shooting captured people dancing in a housing complex courtyard. However, authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of this footage.
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, the incident stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address violence that disrupts social and religious harmony in Mexico.
