Authorities identify Mexican gunman who took hostages and killed one at pyramid

(SeaPRwire) –   Officials have identified the individual who opened fire on Monday at a historic Mexican pyramid, killing a Canadian tourist and injuring over a dozen more people.

The assailant has been named as 27-year-old Mexican national Julio Cesar Jasso, according to an anonymous state official not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

Jasso later took his own life, and security personnel recovered a firearm, a knife, and ammunition at the scene. Authorities stated he acted alone, a fact later confirmed by the State of Mexico government.

Seven victims sustained gunshot wounds, officials reported, while others were injured in the ensuing panic as crowds fled down the pyramid, with some people falling.

Authorities said those hospitalized were tourists from multiple nations, including the United States, Colombia, Russia, Brazil, and Canada. The ages of the victims spanned from 6 to 61 years old.

Local media footage seems to depict the suspect standing on top of the ancient structure as tourists fled below, with the sound of gunshots heard in the background.

Situated near Mexico City, the Teotihuacan complex is among the nation’s top archaeological destinations, attracting millions of foreign tourists annually to its massive pre-Hispanic pyramids.

The incident occurred just after 11:30 a.m. while dozens of visitors were on the summit of the Pyramid of the Moon.

A local guide noted that security protocols at the location have shifted in recent years, and consistent entry screenings are no longer standard practice.

On social media, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated the shooting is under investigation and that she has been in contact with the Canadian Embassy.

“What happened today in Teotihuacán deeply pains us. I express my most sincere solidarity with the affected individuals and their families,” she wrote.

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand posted on X that a “horrific act of gun violence” resulted in one Canadian’s death and another’s injury in Teotihuacán, adding her “thoughts are with their family and loved ones.”

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson also conveyed “deep concern” and sorrow over the fatalities and multiple injuries in an evening post on X, stating the U.S. is “ready to provide support as needed while Mexican authorities continue their investigation.”

In a statement, The National Institute of Anthropology and History announced the Teotihuacán archaeological zone will be closed indefinitely.