In brief
In a tragic event atop the ancient Pyramid of the Moon at Teotihuacán, a gunman influenced by past violent incidents opened fire, resulting in a fatality and numerous injuries. The assailant, identified as Julio César Jasso Ramírez, had literature referencing other mass shootings, including the Columbine High School tragedy. Following the incident, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced strengthened security measures at archaeological and tourist sites nationwide.
The gunman who opened fire atop Mexico's ancient Pyramid of the Moon appeared to have been influenced by other violent shootings and showed signs of psychological problems, the country's president said on Tuesday. Julio César Jasso Ramírez, 27, a Mexican national, carried a handgun, dozens of cartridges, a knife, and literature referencing acts of violence, officials said on Tuesday. Mexico's top prosecutor stated that Jasso Ramírez planned and executed the attack alone, ultimately fatally shooting himself after a standoff with police.A Canadian woman was fatally shot and 13 others were injured in the attack at the popular tourist site northwest of Mexico City. President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated that the assailant displayed psychological issues and carried documents referencing a notorious past mass shooting in the U.S., namely the Columbine High School massacre.Ramírez allegedly referred to the Columbine event during the shooting, which occurred exactly 27 years after the incident. He left behind documents indicating prior violent actions, prompting both shock and investigation into his motives.Videos from witnesses recorded during the chaos show him making threats while shooting from the pyramid's platform. Local authorities confirmed that the gunman had been a frequent visitor to the site, which was reportedly a planned act rather than a spontaneous outburst.The incident has triggered a reevaluation of security at popular tourist destinations, with immediate actions being taken to install metal detectors and increase police presence at archaeological sites. President Sheinbaum reassured the public regarding safety measures as the country prepares for the upcoming World Cup, emphasizing the safety of tourists in Mexico.
