Canadian Tourist Killed, Multiple Injured in Mexico Pyramid Shooting

A gunman opened fire at Mexico’s historic Teotihuacan archaeological site on Monday, killing a Canadian tourist and wounding more than a dozen visitors before taking his own life, according to Mexican authorities.

Officials identified the shooter as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Jasso, a Mexican national who authorities say acted alone during the attack at the Pyramid of the Moon, one of Mexico’s most visited pre-Hispanic landmarks. Security personnel recovered a gun, a knife, and ammunition following the incident.

The shooting began around 11:30 a.m. when dozens of tourists were atop the ancient structure. According to state officials, seven victims suffered gunshot wounds, while others were injured during the chaotic scramble to escape, with some falling as they rushed down the steep pyramid steps.

Among the injured were international tourists from the United States, Colombia, Russia, Brazil, and Canada, with victims ranging in age from 6 to 61. Footage circulating in Mexican media captured terrifying scenes of visitors fleeing while gunshots echoed across the archaeological complex.

“What happened today in Teotihuacán deeply pains us. I express my most sincere solidarity with the affected individuals and their families,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum wrote on social media. She confirmed that her administration is investigating the incident and has been in contact with the Canadian Embassy.

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand acknowledged the “horrific act of gun violence” on social media, confirming that one Canadian was killed and another wounded in the attack. “My thoughts are with their family and loved ones,” she stated.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson also expressed “deep concern” over the incident, offering American support while Mexican authorities continue their investigation.

The Teotihuacan archaeological complex, located approximately 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, draws millions of international visitors annually to its massive ancient structures, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Built between the 1st and 7th centuries, the UNESCO World Heritage site represents one of the most significant pre-Columbian civilizations in the Americas.

Security measures at Teotihuacan have reportedly changed in recent years, with routine entry screenings becoming less consistent, according to local guides. The attack raises questions about security protocols at Mexico’s popular tourist destinations as the country contends with various security challenges.

The incident comes at a sensitive time for Mexico’s tourism industry, which has been working to recover from pandemic-related downturns while addressing safety concerns. Tourism represents approximately 8.5% of Mexico’s GDP and provides critical employment throughout the country.

Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History announced that the Teotihuacan archaeological site will remain closed indefinitely while authorities complete their investigation.

The shooting marks a rare instance of gun violence at one of Mexico’s most treasured archaeological sites, shocking both local communities and international visitors who frequent the ancient complex. Local officials are expected to review security protocols at major tourist attractions following the incident.