Gunman shoots several tourists at historic pyramids in Mexico
3 minute readPublished: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 5:18 am
Gunman Attacks Tourists at Mexican Pyramids, Leaving One Dead
Mexico City - A tragic incident unfolded at the historic Teotihuacan pyramids on Monday when a gunman opened fire on tourists, resulting in one fatality and numerous injuries. The assailant, identified as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Jasso of Mexico, began shooting from atop one of the pyramids, targeting visitors at the popular archaeological site.
Authorities confirmed that the shooter later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Security officials recovered a firearm, a knife, and ammunition at the scene. The State of Mexico government confirmed Jasso was the sole attacker.
The attack resulted in seven people being wounded by gunfire. The local government reported that the injured included six Americans, three Colombians, one Russian, two Brazilians, and one Canadian. The youngest person injured was 6 years old, and the oldest was 61.
The shooting occurred shortly after 11:30 a.m. on the Pyramid of the Moon, a popular spot for tourists. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people scrambled for cover and attempted to escape. The Teotihuacan pyramids, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a major tourist destination, attracting over 1.8 million international visitors last year.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged a thorough investigation into the incident and has been in contact with the Canadian Embassy. Canada's foreign affairs minister confirmed the death of one Canadian and the injury of another. The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico also expressed concern and offered support. The National Institute of Anthropology and History announced the site's closure until further notice.
BNN's Perspective:
This act of violence is deeply concerning, particularly given its location at a significant cultural landmark. While the investigation is ongoing, it underscores the importance of robust security measures at popular tourist destinations. It is crucial for Mexican authorities to address this incident swiftly and transparently, ensuring the safety of visitors and preserving the country's rich cultural heritage.
Keywords: Teotihuacan pyramids, shooting, Mexico, tourists, injury, death, gunman, Pyramid of the Moon, UNESCO World Heritage Site, investigation, violence, Canada, United States, archaeological site, security.