On the evening of November 9, 2024, an armed assault on the Los Cantaritos bar situated in the historic district of Queretaro, Mexico, resulted in the tragic loss of ten lives and the injury of thirteen others. The attackers, a group of at least four individuals, arrived at the scene in a pickup truck and initiated gunfire on the bar’s patrons. The victims consisted of seven males and three females.
The city’s public security chief, Juan Luis Ferrusca Ortiz, verified the incident and the count of victims. He also mentioned that at least one person has been taken into custody following the attack.
The attackers were traced by local officials through the license plates of the vehicle they used to escape the crime scene. This vehicle was later discovered deserted and set ablaze.
Security camera footage from the bar, circulated on social media, recorded a group of four individuals entering the bar and indiscriminately firing at seated patrons. The video depicts individuals screaming, seeking cover and falling to the floor, with visible signs of blood from those hit by the gunfire.
Queretaro, situated roughly 120 miles to the northwest of Mexico City, is generally perceived as one of the safer regions in Mexico. The area has largely escaped the levels of violence experienced in neighboring regions. This event, however, has heightened concerns about the potential spread of organized crime and associated violence into previously unaffected areas.
Condemning the attack, Governor Mauricio Kuri assured the public that justice would be served. “I reiterate to the people of Queretaro that there will be punishment for those responsible for this brutal act,” stated Kuri. He further indicated that security measures would be enhanced to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The injured were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. Two of them are said to be in critical condition. Authorities have postponed the release of the victims’ identities until their families have been notified.
This incident is part of a wider pattern of violence plaguing various regions of Mexico. Queretaro has largely been shielded from such incidents, but other areas have faced significant violence tied to organized crime and drug cartels. Despite ongoing efforts by the federal government to combat these criminal entities, the challenges persist.
Residents have expressed their shock and concern following the incident, calling for enhanced security measures and vigilance. Community leaders are encouraging citizens to work with authorities and report any suspicious activities to help preclude future attacks.
Following the attack, the Los Cantaritos bar, a well-liked local venue, has been temporarily shut down. The owners and staff are cooperating with authorities as they evaluate the damage and plan the next steps. Support services are being provided to employees and patrons affected by the incident.
