A Canadian woman has been killed and at least 13 others wounded, including another Canadian, in a calculated attack at one of Mexico's most visited archaeological sites, authorities confirmed Tuesday.
The shooting occurred Monday at the Teotihuacán pyramids, located roughly 50 kilometres northeast of Mexico City. Mexican National Guard officials identified the gunman as 27-year-old Julio César Jasso, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following the rampage.
Investigators say the attack was not spontaneous. The gunman had been staying at a nearby hotel and carried materials related to a notorious violent incident from April 1999—the Columbine High School shooting that claimed 13 lives. Mexican authorities noted both shootings began at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time.
A Popular Tourist Destination Turned Tragedy
The 29-year-old Canadian identified as injured in the attack, Delicia Li de Yong, was among those hurt. Twelve additional victims, ranging in age from six to 61, were hospitalized and remain in stable condition, Mexico's security cabinet reported. The deceased Canadian woman has not been publicly identified by authorities.
Eyewitnesses described chaos as the gunman fired from atop one of the ancient structures while ranting against tourists and playing unusual music. Dozens of visitors scrambled down the pyramids, seeking cover as panic spread across the historic site.
The Teotihuacán pyramids, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by three separate ancient civilizations, attracts more than 1.8 million visitors annually. Monday's violence marks a serious security breach at one of Mexico's premier destinations.
Canada's Government Responds
Prime Minister Mark Carney issued condolences to the family of the deceased Canadian and acknowledged Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's personal involvement in the response. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed she had spoken with her Mexican counterpart and said Canada expects a thorough investigation.
Mexico Tightens Security Ahead of World Cup
In response, Mexican authorities have significantly increased security measures at multiple tourist destinations. President Sheinbaum emphasized the attack underscores an urgent need to strengthen national security protocols.
The incident comes just weeks before Mexico hosts 13 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup beginning June 11. Mexico's security secretary, Omar García Harfuch, announced plans for heightened military presence and digital cyber patrols at major tourist sites in preparation for the international tournament.
José Luis Cervantes Martínez, attorney-general of the State of Mexico, disclosed that the gunman's backpack contained books and materials referencing the Columbine tragedy. Research has shown the 1999 school shooting has inspired at least 100 plots or attacks since, with at least 18 perpetrators specifically targeting the anniversary date.
Monday's attack was not linked to cartel violence, officials stated, distinguishing it from recent security incidents that forced thousands of tourists to shelter in hotels during incidents in Puerto Vallarta just two months earlier.
This report is based on information from The Globe and Mail's coverage of the incident. Read the original story at The Globe and Mail.