Two American citizens vacationing in Mexico were tragically shot, leading to widespread shock and renewed concern over safety for visitors entering the region. Rafael Cardona Aguilera and Gloria Ambriz de Cardona, residents of Sacramento, California, were fatally attacked on Wednesday in the town of Angamacutiro, located midway between popular destinations Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City.
Local authorities confirmed the identities of the victims, stating they were the brother and sister-in-law of the town’s mayor, Hermes Arnulfo Pacheco Bribiesca. The couple had arrived for what is commonly known as familial holiday gatherings, which many Americans of Mexican descent frequently partake in.
The incident has sparked concerns over security, especially since Angamacutiro is known for its violent drug gang conflicts. Rafael, 53, and Gloria, 50, were reportedly attacked whilst visiting family, as they had been staying with relatives during their time there, according to reports from
The New York Times and other news outlets.
Describing the shocking attack, the Michoacán Attorney General’s Office reported on Thursday they received notifications about occupants of a black Ford pickup truck being shot. Authorities found Gloria dead from her wounds inside the vehicle, whereas Rafael was discovered gravely injured. The couple was discovered within their 2016 Ford Platinum pickup, which had been riddled with bullets. Following the shooting, Rafael was rushed to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Despite extensive media coverage surrounding the case, officials have been unable to determine why the couple was targeted. “It’s still unclear what led to the attack,” officials stated, as the investigation continues. A spokesperson from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico revealed it was closely monitoring the situation and working with Mexican authorities for updates.
This horrifying incident follows another string of violence reported recently within the Michoacán state, which is frequently cited for its rampant crime. The region has witnessed multiple high-profile killings, including the assassination of the town’s police chief last October and the abduction of the former mayor, who remains missing. Reports indicate local authorities and officials have been working tirelessly to combat the violence stemming from drug cartel conflicts.
For perspective, the mayor’s brother, who was also involved in public service as a state lawmaker, was murdered back in 2020. Such violent occurrences have raised significant alarm among residents and leaders within Angamacutiro, with many demanding improved security measures and interventions from higher government officials.
According to the Los Angeles Times, this dire situation compounds the existing fears surrounding travel safety within Michoacán. Travelers are increasingly warned not to travel to this area due to crime, kidnapping, and violence. The U.S. State Department has issued advisories, denouncing the dangerous conditions and advising limited travel routes for U.S. government workers within the state.
Following the tragic deaths of Rafael and Gloria Cardona, family members are set to travel to Mexico to host memorial services for the couple, who were known for their close ties to their community.
Despite efforts from local and national leaders to stem the tide of violence, it appears the new administration under Claudia Sheinbaum has encountered significant challenges. Sheinbaum, who recently assumed the presidency, campaigned on trusting promises to tackle crime and improve public safety nationwide. Yet, her term has begun with several violent incidents, including the murder of a judge last Wednesday in Acapulco.
With the spotlight on Michoacán, many travelers are likely to reconsider their plans, asking: is it really safe to visit?
Only time will tell whether the local and federal governments can adequately address the treacherous situation facing citizens and overseas visitors alike.
