Carlos Manzo, the newly elected mayor of Uruapan was gunned down along with six other people Monday during a Day of the Dead candle light vigil. This tragic incident was a reminder of the urgent crisis of violence faced by public officials in Mexico. Manzo was officially sworn into office as mayor in September 2024. As an independent politician, he unapologetically called out organized crime and continually urged the federal government to take more decisive steps to address the violence. Uruapan, once Mexico’s avocado capital, is on the edge today. Their community has lost a leader who truly put public safety at the top of their priority list.
Manzo’s time as mayor was deeply affected by issues of policing and fear for personal safety. He often wore a bullet-proof vest and had recently asked for increased security from local and federal officials. Even with federal protection since December 2024—protection that was recently bolstered in May—he repeatedly said he didn’t feel safe. Yet those fears remained as constant shadows on his psyche. His murder has fueled discussions about the danger faced by public officials in Mexico, where multiple politicians and journalists have been killed in recent years.
Even with 230 security officials—police, medics, and a rapid response unit—on hand, the scene of terror played out through the night. Though Manzo was escorted on the trips by 14 National Guard troops for perimeter security, local police protected him in the immediate area. Yet, the attackers were able to take advantage of the shortcomings of the open and welcoming space.
“The aggressors took advantage of the vulnerability of a public event,” said Omar Harfuch, a senior security official.
After Manzo’s assassination, Mexican authorities swiftly detained two suspects connected to the killing. At the same time, reports began to appear that a third suspect was killed. That investigation is still unfolding, but this tragedy highlights an alarming trend of growing dangers to elected leaders who dare stand up to the interests of organized crime.
Manzo had previously spoken out against the targeting of mayors who take a tough stance against criminal interests. “I don’t want to join the ranks of mayors executed, mayors whose lives have been extinguished,” he told the New York Times earlier this year, emphasizing the deadly toll that violence takes on Mexican officials.
Read Claudia Sheinbaum’s complete response to the tragedy and declaration of justice. She did not shy away when she promised that they will “devote all resources of the State” to restoring peace and security. They further promised to ensure no impunity and provide full justice. This pledge is an effort in the right direction, but broader steps are needed to address violence in areas most affected by organized crime.
The avocado production industry in Uruapan has greatly impacted Mexico’s economic health. This latter point is particularly salient as the country prepares for negotiations on the renewal of its trade agreement with the United States and Canada. The elimination of Manzo would be a big blow to effective local governance. It could endanger the long-term economic viability of a state or region where agriculture is the primary economic driver.
“How many mayors haven’t they killed because they opposed making these pacts with organized crime?” – Carlos Manzo.
As Uruapan mourns the loss of its mayor, calls for increased security deployments continue to echo across the city and country. The U.S. has similarly hinted at a willingness to strengthen collaboration with Mexico to counter organized crime. Christopher Landau, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, on Wednesday said that the U.S. is ready to deepen security collaboration with that country. Their longterm aim is to eradicate organized crime’s influence in both countries.
