Gunman Opens Fire at Teotihuacan Pyramids, Killing Canadian Tourist and Injuring 13
A shooting at Mexico's Teotihuacan pyramids resulted in the death of a Canadian tourist and injuries to 13 others; the gunman, who acted alone, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
On April 20, 2026, a gunman opened fire at the Teotihuacan pyramids, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located north of Mexico City, resulting in the death of a Canadian tourist and injuries to at least 13 others. The assailant, identified as 27-year-old Julio César Jasso Ramírez, acted alone and was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The attack occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time on the Pyramid of the Moon. Among the injured were six Americans, three Colombians, two Brazilians, one Russian, and another Canadian. The victims ranged in age from 6 to 61 years old. Seven individuals sustained gunshot wounds, while others were injured during the ensuing panic.
Authorities recovered a firearm, a knife, and multiple rounds of ammunition at the scene. Investigations revealed that Jasso Ramírez carried materials related to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre, including books and handwritten notes referencing the attack. The shooting coincided with the 27th anniversary of the Columbine incident.
In response to the attack, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the need to strengthen security protocols at major tourist destinations. She also highlighted the importance of analyzing external influences that may provoke such violence within the country.
The Teotihuacan pyramids have been temporarily closed following the incident. The site, one of Mexico's most significant tourist attractions, drew more than 1.8 million international visitors last year.