Mexico reeling from supermarket blast now loses mayor in assassination

OROPAN: Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Oropan in Mexico’s western state of Michoacán, was shot dead during a public ceremony marking the ‘Day of the Dead,’ local authorities confirmed.

The incident occurred when unidentified gunmen opened fire indiscriminately during the event, triggering panic among attendees who fled the scene in chaos.

According to officials, two suspects were arrested, while one of the attackers was killed during the exchange of gunfire. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the shooting and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.

Michoacán has long been one of Mexico’s most volatile regions, plagued by violence linked to powerful drug cartels and organised crime groups that extort local farmers and businesses.

Mayor Manzo was renowned to be a strong voice against organised crime and he was among the leaders who wanted the police to target cartels. Law enforcement agencies have tightened security in the area following the attack as investigations continue.

Earlier, a powerful explosion ripped through a supermarket in the northern Mexican city of Hermosillo, killing at least 23 people and injuring 11 others, according to local authorities.

Officials confirmed that children were among the victims of the blast, which occurred at a “Waldo’s” store located in the city center. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, and the injured were transported to several hospitals across Hermosillo for urgent medical treatment.