People gather to honour late Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez, who was shot during Day of the Dead celebrations, in Uruapan, Michoacan state, Mexico, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.
In a shocking act of violence, Uruapan Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez was shot dead during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Michoacan, Mexico. The tragic incident took place on Saturday night in front of dozens of people gathered in the town’s historic center.
According to authorities, the mayor was rushed to a hospital after being shot multiple times but later died from his injuries. The attack also left a city council member and a bodyguard wounded.
Gunfire at a Celebration Turns Deadly
What was meant to be a night of cultural celebration turned into chaos. Witnesses said the gunman opened fire suddenly, hitting the mayor seven times. Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed that the attacker was shot and killed at the scene by security forces.
Officials later revealed that the weapon used in the attack was tied to previous armed clashes between rival criminal groups in the region.
Michoacan: A State Gripped by Violence
Michoacan has long been one of Mexico’s most violent states, plagued by turf wars between drug cartels and criminal organizations. These groups frequently target local politicians who challenge their control or expose corruption.
Manzo Rodríguez had previously appealed to President Claudia Sheinbaum for federal help in tackling organized crime. On social media, he openly accused the state governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla and local police of corruption and negligence.
Uruapan Mourns Its Mayor
The streets of Uruapan were filled with grief on Sunday as hundreds of residents dressed in black joined the mayor’s funeral procession. Many held photographs of Manzo Rodríguez and chanted, “Justice! Justice! Out with Morena!”—a reference to the ruling political party.
At the front of the procession, a black horse carried one of the mayor’s trademark hats on its saddle—a symbolic farewell. Behind it, mariachi musicians played somber tunes as the crowd walked through the narrow, flower-lined streets.
The Attack Caught on Camera
The horrifying shooting was captured on video and quickly spread across social media. The footage showed families, tourists, and residents enjoying the traditional festivities surrounded by candles, marigolds, and painted skulls. Moments later, gunshots shattered the celebration, sending people running for safety.
In another clip, police officers can be seen securing the area as an official performs CPR on a person lying on the ground.
Security Measures and Warnings Ignored
Authorities confirmed that Manzo Rodríguez had been under police and National Guard protection since late 2024, three months after taking office. His security detail was strengthened in May 2025, though officials have not disclosed the reason for the increased protection.
Locals say the mayor’s outspoken stance against organized crime may have made him a target. He was often referred to as “The Mexican Bukele,” comparing him to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, known for his hardline approach to gang violence.
A Pattern of Violence Against Local Leaders
The killing of Manzo Rodríguez is the latest in a disturbing pattern of attacks on local politicians in Michoacan. In June, Tacambaro Mayor Salvador Bastidas and his bodyguard were shot dead outside Bastidas’ home. In October 2024, journalist Mauricio Cruz Solís was also murdered shortly after interviewing Manzo Rodríguez in Uruapan.
Fear and Uncertainty Grip the Region
As investigations continue, residents remain fearful. The murder has reignited debate over government accountability and cartel control in Michoacan.
For many in Uruapan, the tragedy highlights the danger faced by public officials who stand against organized crime. Amid candles, marigolds, and mourning crowds, one message echoed through the town—a desperate plea for justice and peace.
