Carlos Manzo, 40, the independent mayor of Uruapan since September 2024, had urged tougher action against cartels and pleaded for protection.

His death comes as Michoacán endures sustained violence tied to extortion and smuggling routes.

Security Detail and Attack

Officials said a gunman opened fire on Saturday night, November 1, striking Manzo seven times as he attended a candlelight ceremony in Uruapan’s historic center; he died later in hospital, the state attorney general said.

Two suspects were arrested and a third assailant was killed at the scene, according to federal security authorities.

Federal Protection, Local Risks

Mexico’s security minister said Manzo had federal protection since December 2024, reinforced in May, including 14 National Guard members for perimeter security and municipal police for close protection.

He added the attackers “took advantage of the vulnerability of a public event.”

Pattern of Political Violence

The New York Times reported Manzo is the seventh Michoacán mayor killed since 2022, underscoring risk to local officials as rival groups contest territory.

In Uruapan—an avocado hub of roughly 360,000—Manzo had publicized mass-grave finds and decried extortion of producers.

Aftermath and Community Response

Authorities linked the weapon to two prior clashes between regional criminal groups, and said no line of inquiry is ruled out.

Hundreds dressed in black joined Uruapan’s funeral procession on Sunday, chanting for justice and denouncing corruption.