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Gunman at Mexico’s Ancient Teotihuacan Pyramids Made Chilling “Sacrifice” Threats Before Deadly Attack
A deadly attack at one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological landmarks left one Canadian tourist dead and multiple people injured Monday when a gunman opened fire at the ancient Teotihuacan ruins complex outside Mexico City.
The 27-year-old attacker, identified as Julio César Jasso, reportedly made disturbing statements about human sacrifice while holding tourists hostage atop the Pyramid of the Moon, according to video footage captured by one of his victims.
“Don’t move, or I’ll sacrifice you,” Jasso shouted at terrified visitors while brandishing his weapon. “This was built for sacrifices. Not for visiting and taking a photo,” he continued in the chilling video that has since emerged from the incident.
Authorities report that Jasso appeared to have deliberately timed the attack to coincide with two significant dates: the 27th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in Colorado and Adolf Hitler’s birthday, suggesting ideological motivations. Investigators noted that Jasso was reportedly obsessed with Hitler.
During his rampage, the gunman specifically targeted international visitors, at one point claiming he had already killed two Korean tourists. “See. I keep my word. Two Koreans are dead there. I sacrificed them like dogs,” he said in the recorded rant, before threatening European tourists that they would not return home.
The attack at Teotihuacan — a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to approximately 100 BCE that draws millions of visitors annually — left seven people with gunshot wounds and six others injured, some from falls as panicked tourists scrambled down the steep ancient structures. The ruins feature massive pyramids including the Pyramid of the Sun and the smaller Pyramid of the Moon, connected by a central avenue known as the Avenue of the Dead.
In total, thirteen people required medical attention, representing a diverse group of international tourists. Mexican authorities confirmed that those hospitalized included six Americans, three Colombians, and individuals from Russia, Brazil, the Netherlands, and Canada. The victims ranged in age from 6 to 61 years old.
The incident marks a disturbing security breach at one of Mexico’s premier tourist destinations, potentially impacting the country’s vital tourism industry, which accounts for approximately 8.5% of Mexico’s GDP and employs millions of people. Tourism officials have not yet commented on what additional security measures might be implemented at archaeological sites following the shooting.
After the shooting spree, Jasso turned his weapon on himself and died at the scene. Police later recovered a gun, knife, and ammunition from his possession.
The attack comes amid broader concerns about security at popular tourist destinations throughout Mexico. While violence at archaeological sites has been rare, the incident raises questions about security protocols at these open cultural landmarks that attract thousands of visitors daily.
Mexican authorities have opened a full investigation into the incident, including examining Jasso’s background and potential motives beyond the apparent Nazi sympathies and fascination with ancient sacrificial practices.
The Teotihuacan archaeological complex, located about 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, remains one of Mexico’s most significant pre-Hispanic sites, known for its massive architectural achievements and cultural importance in Mesoamerican history.
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14 Comments
This is a devastating incident that underscores the need for better security and mental health support to prevent such attacks. My condolences to the victims and their families. I hope the investigation sheds light on the gunman’s motivations and leads to measures to protect Mexico’s cultural heritage.
Agreed. Securing these iconic archaeological sites while preserving their accessibility for visitors is crucial. Mexico must balance security needs with maintaining the cultural significance of places like Teotihuacan.
As someone fascinated by ancient civilizations, this attack on the Teotihuacan pyramids is heartbreaking. I can’t imagine the terror the victims must have experienced. Authorities need to take a hard look at security protocols to prevent such senseless acts of violence at these revered cultural sites.
This is a disturbing and tragic incident at one of Mexico’s most iconic archaeological sites. I hope the authorities can determine the gunman’s motivations and prevent similar attacks in the future. My condolences to the victims and their families.
I agree, the gunman’s references to human sacrifice and Hitler are deeply concerning. Targeting tourists at a cultural heritage site is a senseless act of violence.
It’s appalling that someone would desecrate such an important historical landmark with an attack like this. I hope the investigation sheds light on how to better protect archaeological sites and tourists from these kinds of threats.
Absolutely. The Teotihuacan pyramids are a source of pride for Mexico and a draw for visitors from around the world. Security measures need to be reviewed to prevent future incidents.
As someone interested in archaeology and history, I’m appalled that someone would target a revered cultural site in this way. The gunman’s references to sacrifice and Hitler are deeply disturbing. Authorities must work to prevent such attacks in the future.
I agree, the safety and security of these important historical landmarks should be a top priority. Visitors need to feel safe when exploring Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
This is a tragic reminder of the importance of addressing extremism and mental health issues that can lead to such horrific acts of violence. My heart goes out to all those affected by this senseless attack.
This is a terrible tragedy. Targeting tourists and desecrating a sacred archaeological site is an unforgivable act. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. I hope the authorities can get to the bottom of the gunman’s motives and ensure the Teotihuacan pyramids remain safe for all visitors.
This is a deeply disturbing incident. The gunman’s references to human sacrifice and Hitler’s birthday are chilling. I hope the investigation reveals more about his motivations and leads to improved security measures to protect Mexico’s cultural heritage sites.
Absolutely. These pyramids are a source of national pride and an important part of Mexico’s history. Safeguarding them and visitors should be a top priority for authorities.
How horrific that someone would target tourists at such an important historical site and make threats of human sacrifice. My heart goes out to all those affected. Authorities must thoroughly investigate this incident and take steps to prevent similar attacks in the future to protect Mexico’s cultural heritage.