Mexico's most-wanted cartel leader, Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, was killed during a targeted military operation Sunday, triggering a wave of violence across at least 20 states and leaving US tourists stranded in several popular destinations.
Mexican authorities confirmed that Oseguera, the longtime head of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was wounded during an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. He later died while being transported for medical treatment. The White House said the United States provided intelligence support for the mission, though no American troops were involved.Within hours of the announcement, coordinated unrest erupted across multiple regions of the country.
More Than 250 Blockades Reported Nationwide
Mexico's Security Cabinet said 252 blockades were recorded across 20 of the country's 32 states. Suspected cartel members set vehicles ablaze, blocked highways, torched businesses and clashed with security forces in what officials described as retaliatory actions.
In Jalisco - the cartel's stronghold - cities including Guadalajara experienced major disruptions. Authorities suspended public transportation in some areas, and residents were urged to remain indoors. Social media videos verified by international outlets showed smoke rising from burning vehicles and roadways obstructed by debris.
Officials later said many of the blockades had been cleared, but security deployments remain active as authorities work to stabilize affected areas.
Puerto Vallarta Among Tourist Areas Impacted
The unrest extended to Puerto Vallarta, a coastal resort city popular with American travelers. Video obtained by media outlets showed multiple fires burning across parts of the city.
US tourist Travis Dagenais said he initially believed early morning explosions were construction noise.
"We woke up this morning to what I thought was a building demolition," he said. As reports surfaced online, he realized vehicles were being set on fire and stores attacked. "The city smells like burnt rubber," he added.
Local officials instructed hotels in some areas to advise guests to remain indoors as a precaution.
US State Department Issues Shelter-in-Place Advisory
The US State Department urged American nationals in several Mexican states - including Jalisco, Baja California and Quintana Roo - to "seek shelter and remain in residences or hotels."
Travel advisories also warned against travel to certain border cities, including Tijuana and Ensenada, as the situation remains fluid.
Tourists currently in affected areas are being advised to monitor official government updates and follow instructions from local authorities and hotel staff.
Flights Canceled, Airports Disrupted
Air travel was impacted in the aftermath of the unrest.
At San Jose Mineta International Airport in California, a scheduled flight to Guadalajara was canceled Sunday. A Volaris flight arriving from Puerto Vallarta was also canceled. United Airlines and Air Canada temporarily suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta, while Delta indicated potential disruptions through at least Thursday.
Earlier in the day, videos from Guadalajara International Airport showed travelers taking cover and moving quickly through parts of the terminal. Mexico's Federal Civil Aviation Agency later said the airport had resumed normal operations.
Passengers are advised to check directly with airlines for updates regarding cancellations and rebooking options.
American Family Separated Amid Lockdowns
Among those affected is Priscilla, a California woman visiting family in Tepic, whose last name is being withheld for safety reasons.
After shelter-in-place warnings were issued, she was temporarily separated from her teenage son, who had stayed overnight with relatives about 20 minutes from their hotel. She said she saw vehicles set on fire nearby before streets fell silent except for emergency sirens.
"I've been coming to Mexico all my life... and I've never encountered something like this," she said.
With restaurants closed and hotel kitchens shut down in some areas, visitors have faced uncertainty about food access and transportation.
Who Was "El Mencho"?
Oseguera led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of Mexico's most powerful and violent criminal organizations. Over the past decade, CJNG expanded its operations across multiple states, engaging in drug trafficking, extortion and territorial conflicts.
Security analysts have long warned that the killing or capture of major cartel leaders can trigger immediate backlash as rival factions or loyalists attempt to assert control.
Mexican security forces remain on heightened alert amid concerns of further unrest.
Situation Remains Tense
While many roadblocks have reportedly been cleared and some airport operations have resumed, authorities caution that conditions can change quickly. Security personnel remain deployed in key urban centers, particularly in western Mexico.
For now, US tourists and residents in affected regions are being urged to remain cautious, limit movement and closely follow official advisories as Mexico navigates the aftermath of one of its most significant cartel operations in recent years.
