Mexican cartel leader El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was recently murdered in a high-risk operation in the western state of Jalisco, Mexico, on February 22. Security forces were able to track El Mencho, the most wanted fugitive in Mexico and one of the most wanted in the US, to an area in the mountain town of Tapalpa. Troops raided the property where he was believed to be hiding, sparking gun battles and acts of violence across several states for multiple hours. After the news of El Mencho’s death came out, violence quickly spread across Mexico. Cartel members reportedly blocked the highways in several states and torched vehicles. These situations often occur when major cartel leaders are killed, as criminals create fear in the area. The news even reached the students of La Jolla High School. Sophomore Frida Soto said, “It worsened the situation and created a very dangerous environment in Mexico that also threatens American lives in Mexico.” The impact of this violence spread beyond Mexico into the United States. Multiple airlines cancelled flights landing near the western state of Jalisco as news rapidly spread and safety concerns increased. Sophomore Elise Moreau stated, “I heard schools were being shut down in Mexico.” Schools and universities cancelled classes, and authorities recommended that residents stay safe indoors until the violence dies down. Officials are currently working to restore stability and prevent further violence in the area.
