Mayor of Uruapan, Carlos Manzo, Killed at Day of the Dead Event; No Security Changes Announced

The assassination of Uruapan’s Mayor, Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez, during the Day of the Dead celebrations has raised significant concerns regarding law enforcement policies in Mexico. His killing occurred on November 2, 2025, in the town’s historic center, where he was shot while attending the cultural festivities. Despite being under protection since December 2024, Manzo succumbed to his injuries the following evening in a local hospital.

Details Surrounding the Mayor’s Death

Manzo, aged 40, had previously appealed for increased security measures amid ongoing threats from local criminal organizations. His calls for assistance highlighted the struggles within Michoacan, one of Mexico’s most dangerous regions, plagued by drug cartels including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and La Familia Michoacana.

On the night of the incident, the assailant was also killed at the scene, but the motive behind the attack remains unclear. The situation escalated tensions throughout the region, leading to public gatherings honoring the mayor’s legacy.

Government Response

In the wake of the assassination, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the situation, asserting that there will be no changes to current security policies. She emphasized her administration’s commitment to reducing homicides and expressed distrust toward those calling for militarization in response to the violence. Sheinbaum stated, “That didn’t work,” referencing past strategies during the war on drugs.

• Security Reinforcement: Since May 2025, Manzo’s protection included municipal police and 14 National Guard troops.
• Corruption Claims: Manzo had previously accused Michoacan’s state police and officials, including Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla, of complicity with criminal groups.
• International Cooperation: Sheinbaum acknowledged the proposal from U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau for enhanced security cooperation but reaffirmed that Mexico would not tolerate foreign intervention.

Implications for Michoacan’s Future

The brutal assassination of Carlos Manzo emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced in Michoacan due to powerful crime syndicates. The state’s governance and safety measures remain critical topics for both residents and officials as they grapple with escalating violence.

As investigations into Manzo’s murder progress, the demand for accountability and effective security strategies grows louder. The Mexican government faces scrutiny as it navigates the complexities of crime and public safety in a region marked by enduring conflict.