A deadly Teotihuacan shooting has left a Canadian tourist dead and six others wounded after a gunman opened fire at one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Authorities confirmed that the attacker, identified as Julio Cesar Jasso Ramirez, carried out the midday assault at Teotihuacan, a UNESCO-listed destination famed for its ancient pyramids. The gunman later took his own life.
The violence unfolded on the Pyramid of the Moon, a towering 45-metre structure popular with visitors. Witness videos circulating online showed panic as tourists scrambled for safety while shots rang out.
Six people sustained gunshot wounds, including, a Canadian woman, a Colombian woman and child, a Brazilian national and, two Americans.
Seven others were injured during the chaos as visitors rushed to escape. Emergency responders treated victims at the scene and transported the wounded to nearby hospitals.
Shock at major tourist landmark
The attack stunned visitors at one of Mexico’s busiest tourist attractions, located about 50 kilometres from Mexico City. The site drew over 1.8 million visitors in 2025 alone.
Security forces quickly sealed off the area, recovering a firearm, knife and unused ammunition. Police and the national guard were deployed as authorities evacuated tourists.
Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, described the incident as deeply painful and ordered a full investigation. Canada’s foreign minister, Anita Anand, condemned the attack as “a horrific act of gun violence.”
Rare violence at heritage site
Despite ongoing security challenges linked to organised crime, such incidents at archaeological sites are extremely rare. Officials say this is the first known case of armed violence at Teotihuacan in decades.
The attack comes just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico will co-host with the United States and Canada, raising concerns about tourist safety.
Eyewitness account
An American tourist, Anna Durmont, said the situation initially appeared calm despite the unfolding tragedy.
“It wasn’t clear to us until we got closer that there was a serious emergency,” she said.
Global significance
Teotihuacan, built between the first and seventh centuries, remains one of the most important pre-Hispanic cities in the Americas. Known for its Avenue of the Dead and monumental pyramids, it holds UNESCO World Heritage status for its cultural value.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack.
