On the night of November 9, 2024, the Los Cantaritos bar in Queretaro, Mexico’s historic district was besieged by a group of armed persons. The assault resulted in the untimely demise of ten individuals and left 13 others wounded. At least four assailants, arriving in a pickup truck, started shooting indiscriminately at the bar patrons. The victims consisted of seven males and three females.
Juan Luis Ferrusca Ortiz, the chief of public security in Queretaro, verified the incident and confirmed the casualty numbers. He further stated that law enforcement had apprehended at least one individual suspected of involvement in the attack.
After the attack, the culprits fled the scene in their vehicle, which was later discovered deserted and incinerated. Authorities managed to identify the assailants by tracing the license plates of the vehicle.
Security footage from the bar, which was disseminated on social media platforms, illustrated the chilling scene. It captured four individuals entering the bar and opening fire on unsuspecting patrons. The video depicted patrons screaming in terror, dropping to the ground and seeking shelter, with visible blood from those hit by the gunfire.
Queretaro, situated roughly 120 miles to the northwest of Mexico City, is generally perceived as one of Mexico’s safer regions. The state has largely been immune to the high levels of violence afflicting neighboring regions. However, this recent attack has sparked worries about the possible spread of organized crime-associated violence into previously untouched areas.
State Governor Mauricio Kuri expressed his condemnation of the attack and assured the public that justice would be served. “I reiterate to the people of Queretaro that there will be punishment for those responsible for this brutal act,” Kuri stated. He further announced that security protocols would be strengthened to deter any similar future incidents.
The injured were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Two of them are reportedly in critical condition. The authorities have yet to release the victims’ identities, as they are still in the process of informing their families.
This horrifying incident is part of a broader trend of violence plaguing different parts of Mexico. While Queretaro has remained relatively unscathed, other regions have been heavily impacted by violence associated with organized crime and drug cartels. The federal government continues to enforce measures against these criminal groups, but the situation remains challenging.
Local residents have voiced their shock and concern over the incident, highlighting the need for heightened security and vigilance. Community leaders are urging citizens to collaborate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activities to help thwart future attacks.
The Los Cantaritos bar, a favored haunt among locals, has temporarily halted operations in the wake of the attack. The owners and staff are cooperating with the authorities as they evaluate the damage and strategize for future operations. Support services have been made available for employees and patrons impacted by the incident.
