Gunman at Mexico pyramid site kills Canadian tourist, injures six

April 21, 2026 / 9:33 AM

Sharjah24 - AFP: A gunman killed a Canadian tourist and wounded six others on Monday at Mexico’s famous Teotihuacan archaeological site near Mexico City, authorities said. The attacker later took his own life after opening fire at the heavily visited location, home to pre-Aztecan pyramids.

The shooting occurred on the Pyramid of the Moon, a 45-metre-high monument open to visitors. Those wounded by gunfire included a Canadian woman, a Colombian woman and child, a Brazilian, and two Americans. An additional seven people were injured while trying to flee and were treated at the scene. Authorities identified the gunman as Julio Cesar Jasso Ramirez of Mexico.

Security response and reactions

The midday attack shocked tourists at one of Mexico’s most visited heritage sites. Officials seized a firearm, a knife, and unused ammunition, and evacuated visitors. Federal police and the national guard were deployed to the area.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand described the incident as a “horrific act of gun violence.” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for a thorough investigation and said support teams were sent to assist, adding that the tragedy “deeply pains us.”

Site importance and broader context

Located about 50 km from Mexico City, Teotihuacan attracts both local and international visitors to its pyramids and Avenue of the Dead. More than 1.8 million people visited the site in 2025, according to tourism officials.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient city dates back over 2,000 years. While Mexico faces ongoing drug-related violence, such mass shootings are rare at tourist sites. The incident comes less than two months before the 2026 World Cup, which Mexico will co-host with the United States and Canada, and is expected to draw over 5.5 million visitors.