Mexico Investigates Deadly Soccer Field Attack Amid Rising Crime Concerns

SALAMANCA, Mexico, At least 11 people were killed and 12 others injured when gunmen opened fire at a soccer field in Salamanca, Guanajuato, on Sunday, highlighting ongoing concerns over violent crime in the region.

The attackers struck shortly after a game at a private soccer field, according to Salamanca Mayor César Prieto, who called it a “deplorable and cowardly attack” and a sign of “serious social breakdown.” The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation by the state attorney general’s office.

Ten victims died at the scene, while one succumbed to injuries at a hospital. Among the wounded were a woman and a minor. The incident follows separate attacks in Salamanca on Saturday that left six dead, as well as a foiled attack on a state-owned Pemex oil facility, where authorities disarmed an explosive device.

“Criminal groups are trying to intimidate authorities, but they will not succeed,” Prieto said. He has requested assistance from state and federal officials to restore peace in the area.

President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the federal security cabinet is coordinating with local authorities and prosecutors to identify those responsible. Guanajuato Governor Libia García Muñoz Ledo confirmed that security measures are being reinforced across the region.

“The state attorney general’s office strongly condemns these acts, which threaten life and social harmony. Investigations are ongoing with the victims and their families as the priority,” Guanajuato authorities said.

Guanajuato, which borders Jalisco, a host for several upcoming World Cup matches has high rates of organized crime and some of the country’s highest per-capita homicide figures.

The attack adds to mounting pressure on President Sheinbaum from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged Mexico to intensify operations against drug cartels.

Despite a nationwide drop in high-impact crimes, including a 37% decrease in the daily average of intentional homicides during Sheinbaum’s first year in office, violence persists in certain regions. In Sinaloa, for example, rival factions of the Sinaloa Cartel have clashed since the 2024 arrest of leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada in Texas, fueling continued bloodshed.