In a shocking incident of violence, gunmen invaded a football match in central Mexico on Sunday, leaving at least 11 people dead and 12 others wounded, according to local authorities. The attack occurred in the town of Salamanca, located in Guanajuato state, and has prompted urgent calls for federal intervention to address escalating gang-related crime.
Mayor Reports Casualties and Appeals for Help
César Prieto, the mayor of Salamanca, confirmed the tragic details in a statement shared on social media platforms. He revealed that the assailants arrived at the conclusion of the match and opened fire indiscriminately. Ten individuals were killed immediately at the scene, with one more succumbing to injuries later at a hospital. Among the 12 wounded, a woman and a child were notably affected, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence.
Prieto described the incident as part of a broader "crime wave" sweeping through the city. In a direct appeal, he called upon Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to provide assistance in controlling the rampant violence. "Unfortunately, there are criminal groups trying to subjugate authorities, something they are not going to achieve," the mayor stated, underscoring the challenges faced by local governance in the region.
Investigation and Security Measures Underway
The state prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into the attack and is coordinating with federal authorities to bolster security in the area. This response aims to prevent further incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice. Guanajuato state, where Salamanca is situated, recorded the highest number of homicides in Mexico last year, making it a hotspot for criminal activity.
Local reports indicate that the violence is often linked to conflicts between rival gangs, such as the Santa Rosa de Lima group and the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel. These turf wars have contributed to a persistent atmosphere of insecurity, despite national statistics showing some improvements.
Context of Violence in Mexico
While the Mexican government has reported that the country's murder rate in 2025 was the lowest since 2016, at 17.5 murders per 100,000 inhabitants, analysts caution that these figures may not fully capture the extent of the violence. Incidents like the football match attack in Salamanca serve as stark reminders of the ongoing challenges in combating organised crime and ensuring public safety.
This tragic event has drawn attention to the urgent need for enhanced security measures and federal support in regions plagued by gang violence, as communities continue to grapple with the devastating impacts of such attacks on daily life and local events.
