In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the upscale community of Zapopan, two men were fatally shot inside a Smart Fit gym located in Plaza Andares on Monday morning, April 14, 2025. The shooting, which occurred as the victims were heading to the parking lot, highlights ongoing concerns about violence in the region, particularly connected to organized crime.
The victims, reportedly aged between 35 and 50, were attacked on the gym's stairs. Initial reports suggest that one of the men may have been a bodyguard. Eyewitnesses recounted a harrowing scene, noting that at least one victim sustained gunshot wounds to the face. Local media, including Milenio, confirmed that police apprehended two suspects shortly after the incident, as they attempted to flee the scene.
As the news broke, an intense police presence was reported in the Plaza Andares area, a well-known commercial hub characterized by its high-end shops and restaurants. The shooting caused significant traffic disruptions, as emergency services rushed to the scene, and the area was cordoned off for investigation.
According to the Zapopan police, the suspects were captured with a helmet that may have been used during the attack. The police have not yet released the identities of the victims, but they are expected to provide further information as the investigation unfolds.
This incident is not isolated. Plaza Andares has been a site of previous violent events linked to organized crime, raising alarms among residents and business owners. The area, often frequented by affluent clientele, has now become synonymous with rising crime rates in the state of Jalisco.
Adding to the grim context, reports indicate that over the weekend, at least eight individuals fell victim to homicide in Jalisco. On April 12 alone, the national homicide count reached 69, with Jalisco reporting two murders. The following day, six more were reported in the state, illustrating a disturbing trend of escalating violence.
In the aftermath of the shooting, there has been speculation regarding the identities of the victims. Unofficial sources suggest that one of them could be Kevin Castro, the brother of popular influencer Markitos Toys, who has previously been linked to organized crime activities. This connection raises further questions about the motives behind the attack.
In March 2025, another brother of Markitos Toys, Gail Castro, was murdered in Sinaloa, following threats that circulated on social media, targeting various influencers and public figures accused of ties to criminal organizations. The recent violence appears to be part of a broader pattern of intimidation and retaliation within the criminal underworld.
As the investigation continues, authorities are under pressure to address the root causes of such violence and ensure the safety of residents in Zapopan and surrounding areas. The community is left grappling with the implications of this tragic event, questioning the effectiveness of measures in place to combat organized crime.
The Smart Fit gym, where the shooting took place, is now a crime scene, and patrons are left shaken by the event. Local businesses are concerned about the potential impact on customer footfall in the wake of this incident, as safety becomes a paramount concern for residents and visitors alike.
In a statement, the Zapopan police emphasized their commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly and bringing those responsible to justice. They also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in the area.
The Plaza Andares shooting serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing communities in Mexico, where organized crime continues to exert influence and instill fear among citizens. As authorities work to untangle the web of violence, the hope remains that safety can be restored to this once-peaceful neighborhood.
As the story develops, further updates will be provided regarding the identities of the victims and the ongoing investigation. The community watches closely, seeking answers and reassurance in the wake of this tragic event.
