What should have been a peaceful day exploring one of Mexico’s most iconic landmarks quickly turned into panic, confusion, and tragedy.
Teotihuacan
An armed man climbed to the top of a pyramid at Teotihuacan and opened fire on tourists below Monday morning, killing one Canadian visitor and injuring at least 13 others. The historic site, known for attracting millions of visitors each year, became the center of a terrifying scene as crowds scrambled for safety.
Authorities identified the shooter as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Jasso. Officials confirmed he acted alone and later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A firearm, knife, and ammunition were recovered at the scene.
The shooting began shortly after 11:30 a.m., at a time when the pyramids were filled with visitors. Witnesses described how quickly the situation escalated from confusion to chaos.
At first, some believed the sounds were fireworks.
Rebecca Blackwell/AP
Then the reality hit.
A tour guide at the scene said people immediately dropped to the ground or rushed down the steep steps of the pyramid as gunfire echoed. Others stayed completely still, hoping not to draw attention. Several individuals were injured not only by gunfire, but also during the frantic attempt to escape, with some falling while descending the structure.
Those hospitalized included tourists from multiple countries, including six Americans, along with visitors from Colombia, Brazil, Russia, and Canada. Authorities said victims ranged in age from just 6 years old to 61.
One witness from Vancouver recalled the moment everything changed. She had been shopping for souvenirs when someone suddenly shouted that it wasn’t fireworks, it was gunfire. Within seconds, crowds began rushing down from the pyramid.
“There were thousands of people there,” she said. “And the shots just kept coming.”
The chaos intensified as people tried to flee. In one moment that captured the fear of the situation, a man reportedly jumped to a lower level of the pyramid in an attempt to escape, landing hard on his back.
The incident has also raised concerns about security at the site. According to local guides, security screenings that were once standard at the entrance had been discontinued in recent years.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the tragedy, calling it deeply painful and confirming that a full investigation is underway. She also stated she is in contact with Canadian officials following the death of their citizen.
Canada’s foreign affairs minister, Anita Anand, described the attack as a horrific act of violence and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson also expressed concern, stating that the United States is prepared to support Mexico as authorities continue their investigation.
In response to the attack, officials confirmed that the Teotihuacan archaeological site will remain closed until further notice.
For a destination that has stood for centuries as a symbol of culture and history, the events of that morning left a lasting scar, one that will not be easily forgotten.