Shooting at Teotihuacán Pyramid Kills Tourist, Injures 13

An armed man standing atop one of the historic Teotihuacán pyramids opened fire on tourists Monday, killing one Canadian and leaving at least 13 people injured at the archaeological site north of Mexico's capital, authorities said.

The shooter was identified as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Jasso of Mexico. Jasso later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said, and security officials found a gun, a knife and ammunition. Jasso was the sole assailant in the attack.

The shooting took place shortly after 11:30 a.m. when dozens of tourists were at the top of the Pyramid of the Moon. A man standing on the structure's platform began firing upward.

The Teotihuacán pyramids, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a series of massive structures built by ancient civilizations and drew more than 1.8 million international visitors last year.

The National Institute of Anthropology and History said the archaeological site will remain closed until further notice.

Why This News Matters:

This is deeply unsettling because it happened somewhere people usually feel completely safe. Teotihuacán is a major tourist spot — families, kids, travelers from all over — and suddenly that sense of normalcy was shattered. It’s not just about this tragedy, it’s about how safe people will feel visiting places like this going forward.

Victims, Injuries and Emergency Response

The local government said seven people were wounded by gunshots. How the other people were injured was not disclosed, but a number of people fell when shooting started, some while climbing on the pyramids.

Those taken to hospitals for treatment were six Americans, three Colombians, one Russian, two Brazilians and one Canadian. The youngest person who was injured was 6; the oldest was 61, Mexican authorities said.

At least 13 people were injured during the attack, with several still hospitalized. Authorities say they seized a firearm, a bladed weapon and live cartridges at the site. Mexico’s Foreign Ministry said it is in contact with embassies and is working to provide necessary support to the injured foreign nationals.

Eyewitness Accounts and Chaos During the Attack

A man standing with a gun on top of a pyramid was seen on video and images, while onlookers ducked for cover as bullets rang out. According to the tour guide, several passengers threw themselves face down on the ground, while others attempted to descend the pyramid steps as the shooter resumed firing. Another set of guests lay still on the pyramid's platform, hoping to avoid being targeted.

Brenda Lee, from Vancouver, initially mistook the sounds for fireworks before realizing they were gunfire. "There were thousands of people there and there were a lot of gunshots that just kept coming," she said. A British couple recounted fear as throngs scrambled to escape, claiming there was no planned evacuation and chaos as tourists continued to arrive while others fled.

Government Response and International Reactions

Claudia Sheinbaum wrote on social media that the shooting would be investigated and expressed solidarity with victims and their families.

Canada’s foreign minister Anita Anand confirmed that a Canadian was killed and another wounded and said consular officials were providing assistance.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson expressed deep concern and said the U.S. is ready to provide support. State of Mexico Governor Delfina Gómez also offered support and solidarity to affected families. The incident is being investigated by federal, state and local authorities.

Security Concerns Ahead of World Cup

The shooting happened as Mexico faces scrutiny over public security during preparations to welcome millions of visitors for the World Cup this summer. The opening game will be held in Mexico City, with the tournament expected to draw around 5.5 million international visitors.

Officials have announced plans to deploy nearly 100,000 security personnel to protect fans. Earlier concerns had already been raised about security after cartel-related violence in parts of the country.

Despite widespread cartel violence, such incidents involving tourists are rare, though the latest attack has raised new concerns about safety at major tourist destinations.

Rachel Harper

Rachel Harper is an investigative crime reporter specializing in criminal justice, law enforcement, and public safety issues. With a law degree and journalism experience, she provides detailed coverage of major cases, trials, and criminal justice reform.