A day spent visiting historic and ancient places unexpectedly became a day of tragedy that no one could have predicted. Visiting one of Mexico’s best-known archaeological sites—Teotihuacan—suddenly became a site of tragedy, with the shooting of a visitor and raising concerns about the security of all visitors to public locations in Mexico.
Teotihuacan, outside of Mexico City, is known for its large pyramids and has an extensive history going back to when it was one of ancient Mesoamerica’s most important cities. The site receives thousands of visitors each year from around the world who want to experience the site and see not just the structure of the pyramids but also to experience history.
One of those visitors from Canada was a woman who was enjoying her visit to Teotihuacan like everyone else. Until the moment she was shot and killed when a man started shooting.
But that was not the end of it. Several other visitors were caught in this tragic event. Reports indicated that at least four others were shot and two others were injured from attempting to escape, falling during the frantic escape from the shooting.
Many of the affected were international tourists; some were visiting from Colombia, Russia, and Canada; illustrating how cosmopolitan the group was on that date. Shortly after the attack occurred, circumstances changed again when the suspect committed suicide. At the scene of the incident, police located a weapon, ammunition and a sharp pointed object. The Mexican authorities acted immediately, making a public statement that an investigation into the matter would be undertaken, and sending government personnel such as law enforcement and cultural officials to the scene of the crime to manage it and assist those involved.
The President of Mexico made a public statement, expressed sympathy for the victims and advised that Mexican authorities are working with the Embassy of Canada. Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs also provided a formal message of condolence and announced that they were providing consular assistance to individuals that had been affected. The event was an unfortunate example of how an incident can affect more than just one area and cause pain throughout multiple countries.
What makes this encounter extraordinary is also the site of this location. In addition to being a premier tourist attraction, Teotihuacan is a representation of cultural heritage, tradition, and pride. Visitors anticipate gaining knowledge, exploration, and memories from their visits—not danger. The incidents above provide a glimpse into an uncomfortable truth that exists in the world; that no destination, regardless of recognition or number of visitors, is without some risk. Travel is generally peaceful, but sudden and spontaneous events can create panic.
Returning to the larger point of this example, the events position how quickly circumstances can evolve; how even in locations with which you may be familiar, there still may be a certain level of risk. Travel represents opportunity and adventure; however, there are occasions that these opportunities may result in an unanticipated experience.
