Armed gunmen shot and killed mayoral candidate Yesenia Lara Gutiérrez on Sunday, May 7, during a campaign rally in Texistepec, Veracruz. The attack also claimed the lives of four others, including Lara Gutiérrez’s daughter. The mayoral candidate was leading a caravan of supporters through the town when gunmen ambushed the group, opening fire. Three additional people were wounded in the attack. Veracruz Governor Rocío Nahle confirmed the deaths on Monday, vowing that authorities would fully investigate the incident and ensure the safety of voters leading up to the municipal elections on June 1.

Attack Sparks Outrage and Fear in Veracruz

The tragic killing of Lara Gutiérrez has sent shockwaves through the community, with family and friends of the victims gathering to mourn their loss in Texistepec. Supporters have expressed growing concern over the rising violence associated with the upcoming elections, and some have referred to the attacks as acts of terrorism. “We’re tired of the insecurity — this is terrorism,” said Joaquín Fonseca, a supporter of the late candidate. He added, “Five people are dead, not one. We’re living in terror.”

Cruz Morales, a family friend, emphasized the severe impact violence has had on daily life. “We’re afraid to visit relatives or walk the fields at night,” he said. The attack has caused widespread fear among residents, who now avoid routine activities out of concern for their safety. The violent incident has cast a dark shadow over Veracruz ahead of the June 1 elections, with many fearing more attacks may follow.

Political Violence Escalates in Veracruz

This is the second assassination of a mayoral candidate in Veracruz during the ongoing campaign season. On April 29, Germán Anuar Valencia, a mayoral candidate from the Morena party, was also murdered by gunmen in Coxquihui. Both Lara Gutiérrez and Valencia were running under the banner of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s ruling Morena party. Their deaths highlight the growing risks faced by candidates in Mexico’s municipal elections, particularly in areas like Veracruz, where organized crime groups have long sought control over local governments.

Governor Rocío Nahle confirmed that 57 local candidates have requested additional security from both federal and state authorities due to the escalating violence. While it remains unclear whether Lara Gutiérrez had requested such protection, the need for enhanced security in the region has become a priority. Authorities are working to ensure that the elections remain fair and free of violence.

Veracruz Gears Up for June 1 Elections Amid Growing Concerns

Veracruz is set to hold municipal elections across all 212 municipalities on June 1. As local candidates face the highest risk from organized crime, which seeks influence over city governments, authorities are making efforts to improve security measures in the state. Lara Gutiérrez’s murder has become a tragic symbol of the dangers posed by organized criminal groups during election season.

The political violence in Veracruz is not isolated. Later on Monday, a separate attack in Boca del Río claimed the lives of two federal agents and one civilian. While local outlets reported the shooting, neither state nor federal officials have confirmed the number of casualties. Armed forces were seen securing the scene, but the full details remain unclear.

Governor Vows Justice and Increased Security

In response to the violence, Governor Nahle has promised swift action and a full investigation into the murders of Lara Gutiérrez and the other victims. “No public office is worth dying for,” Nahle stated, emphasizing the importance of protecting public servants and ensuring the safety of Veracruz’s citizens. The governor pledged to increase security measures across the state to prevent further violence and guarantee that the upcoming elections proceed peacefully.

The deaths of Lara Gutiérrez and others have underscored the intense risks associated with political campaigning in Veracruz and many other regions of Mexico. As the nation approaches its municipal elections, authorities face mounting pressure to ensure that democracy prevails and that violence does not overshadow the electoral process.