Canadian Killed, Over a Dozen Injured in Shooting at Mexico’s Teotihuacán Pyramids
On Monday, a gunman took position from one of the ancient pyramids at Teotihuacan and opened fire on tourists
Apr 21, 2026 / GMT+6
On Monday, an armed man opened fire on tourists from the top of one of the historic pyramids at Teotihuacan, tragically killing a Canadian and injuring at least 13 others at the archaeological site located just north of Mexico City, according to authorities.
Authorities said the suspect climbed the Pyramid of the Moon before shooting at crowds gathered below. The sudden gunfire triggered panic among tourists, many of whom ran, hid, or dropped to the ground in an effort to avoid being hit.
Emergency officials reported that the injured included visitors from several countries, including the United States, Brazil, Colombia, Russia, and Canada. Some suffered gunshot wounds, while others were injured during the chaotic rush to escape.
Authorities identified the suspect as a 27-year-old Mexican man. Officials say he acted alone. After the shooting, he died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police recovered a firearm, ammunition, and a knife.
Witnesses described scenes of fear and confusion as people scrambled for safety. Some hid behind ancient structures, while others lay flat on the ground to avoid being hit.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences to the victims and their families. Authorities have launched an investigation into how the attacker was able to carry weapons into the historic site.
Video and images released by local news outlets depicted a man, later recognized as Jasso, brandishing a firearm atop a pyramid while individuals sought shelter. Numerous gunshots were heard in the footage.
The Teotihuacan pyramids, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consist of a collection of enormous edifices located on the periphery of Mexico City, constructed by three distinct ancient cultures. As one of Mexico's premier tourist attractions, the site attracted over 1.8 million international visitors in the previous year, as reported by government statistics.
The incident occurred shortly after 11:30 a.m. when a multitude of tourists were present at the summit of the Pyramid of the Moon. The individual on the platform of the structure began discharging his weapon into the air, according to a tour guide who was present at the location.
The attack has raised serious questions about safety at major tourist attractions in Mexico. Reports suggest that security checks at the site had been reduced in recent years, which may have made it easier for the attacker to enter with weapons.
The Teotihuacán pyramids are one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. Violence at such a well-known and heavily visited location is rare, making this incident especially shocking.
