Is Cancun safe? 12-year-old accidentally killed in latest beach shooting
July 29, 2024: 12-year-old boy accidentally killed in the latest beach shot from Cancun
On Sunday, July 28, 2024, another drug-related shooting took place in Cancun. At 3 p.m., men on jet skis arrived at the beach and opened fire on the group of people, accidentally shooting a 12-year-old boy in the chest and taking him to hospital, but he later died.
Fiscalía General del Estado (FGE) said in the statement: “Initial investigations suggest that the attackers arrived by sea on a jet ski and shot at some people, probably as a result of a dispute over the sale of drugs.”
“The affected family members are Mexican citizens and live in this municipality of Cancun. The Public Prosecution Service, together with the Coordination for the Construction of Peace and Security in Quintana Roo, is working to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice.”
January 30, 2024: Four dead in ordered hit for failed drug delivery to Costa Maya
In the Mayan community of X-Hazil Sur, four men were killed in a shooting incident at their home. The attack was carried out by armed men claiming to be from the prosecutor’s office. The victims, identified as Wendolin “H”, Abraham “H”, Jesús “N”, and a fourth unidentified man, were attacked while sitting on their terrace. The incident, which took place in the normally quiet area of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, is believed to be related to a drug shipment dispute involving the Caborca cartel. Neighbors reported that at least two of the deceased were involved in illegal activities.
- December 13, 2023: Canadian citizen killed in the last shooting at the gym in Cancun – The Canadian person fatally shot at a Cancun gym has been identified as 37-year-old Samy Tamouro, who is known to have an extensive criminal history. Tamouro was training at a private gym in Puerto Cancun on Wednesday morning when he was targeted. Reports indicate that a man entered the gym and shot Tamouro, then quickly escaped on a motorcycle that was waiting outside. After being shot, Tamouro collapsed from the exercise equipment he was using and was left seriously injured in the gym.
- October 16, 2023: Cancun Uber driver shot and stripped of the car during a robbery – In a recent incident on Sunday evening at SM 308 in Cancun, a man identifying himself as an Uber driver was found abandoned and injured, reportedly as a result of an attack with a BB gun. The victim, Armando “N,” about 50 years old, said he was driving along Josefa Ortíz de Domínguez Street when he was intercepted, threatened and shot by unknown assailants. The motive behind this attack remains unclear. It is uncertain whether it was a targeted attack on the victim due to his occupation as an Uber driver, or whether the attackers were solely interested in stealing his vehicle.
- September 13, 2023: Hitmen kill Cozumel man after shooting him twice outside his home – On Tuesday, a young man tragically lost his life in front of his home, suffering two gunshot wounds. Local law enforcement on the island responded to the home following reports from witnesses who called 911. Residents in the area recounted a harrowing incident involving assailants who brazenly approached the house on José María Morelos Street during the day. They unleashed a hail of gunfire, striking 25-year-old Erick “L” twice and leaving him in life-threatening condition. The attackers had arrived in a gray truck, which was subsequently searched by Cozumel police but could not be located.
- September 11, 2023: Cancun passenger killed when targeting cars – A shooting in Cancun resulted in the tragic death of one car passenger and another injured. In the early hours of Sunday, Cancun police were called to SM 96 in response to gunfire directed at a vehicle. According to the survivor, the incident took place around 3am when unidentified persons intercepted the car he was traveling in, opened fire and subsequently fled the scene. Tragically, 33-year-old Limberth “N,” a hotel waiter from Yucatan, lost his life, while 21-year-old José Alejandro “N” from Venezuela, who worked as a bar ticket seller, suffered injuries.
- September 7, 2023: Two taxi drivers from Playa del Carmen put in prison for photographing the facade of a house
- July 28, 2023: Cancun Hotel Zone – That was one person killed in a premeditated shooting Tuesday at a hotel in Cancun’s hotel zone. The attorney general claims drugs played a role in the targeted attack.
Latest US travel advisory for Cancun
Be extra careful for crime State of Quintana Roo.
Be careful, as criminal activity and violence can happen anytime, anywhere, including in tourist hotspots. Travelers should be constantly aware of their surroundings, avoid areas known for illegal activities, and leave any situation that feels unsafe.
Bystanders have been unintentionally injured in shootings between rival gangs, even when they were not aimed at tourists. In addition, American citizens have been victims of both non-violent and violent crimes, both in areas frequented by tourists and elsewhere.
U.S. government employees are not restricted from traveling in the state of Quintana Roo, but they are encouraged to be especially alert after dark in central parts of Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, and to stick to well-lit pedestrian routes and tourist areas.
Reasons to visit Cancun despite the shootings
Cancun continues to draw visitors, and its appeal extends beyond safety concerns for several compelling reasons:
- Stunning Coastal Beauty: Cancun enjoys a well-deserved reputation for its pristine beaches, where soft, white sand and crystal clear turquoise water come together to form a tropical paradise.
- Diverse range of activities: This vibrant city caters to a multitude of interests and offers everything from exciting water sports and snorkeling to exploring ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant nightlife.
- Gastronomic delights: Cancun’s culinary landscape is a true delight, with a diverse range of traditional Mexican dishes and international flavors to satisfy a wide range of palates.
- Sunshine all year round: With warm and sunny weather all year round, Cancun is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility in the colder climates.
- Luxury all-inclusive resorts: Known for its lavish all-inclusive resorts, Cancun guarantees its guests a hassle-free and wonderful vacation experience.
- Rich cultural heritage: Steeped in Mayan culture and history, the region boasts nearby archaeological treasures such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, a true paradise for history buffs.
- Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism: Cancun prides itself on its willingness to welcome visitors from all over the world, with a strong focus on delivering top tourism and hospitality services.
- Scenic Natural Wonders: In addition to its enchanting beaches, Cancun offers breathtaking natural beauty, including lush jungles, enchanting cenotes (natural sinkholes), and easy access to the nearby Riviera Maya.
- Shopping and entertainment center: The city is teeming with countless shopping centers, charming boutiques and a vibrant range of entertainment venues, promising a lively and varied experience for visitors day and night.
