Another American Tourist Shot in Mexico’s Quintana Roo State
Despite the U.S. State Department’s warning to exercise caution while traveling to Mexico, another American tourist has been shot in the country’s Quintana Roo state. The tourist was shot in the leg by unknown assailants while in Puerto Morelos, just outside of Cancun.
The motive for the shooting is still under investigation, but this incident highlights the ongoing risk for U.S. citizens visiting Mexico’s coastal areas, particularly Quintana Roo where crime and kidnapping are prevalent. The victim was taken to a hospital in Cancun for treatment of a non-life-threatening injury.
Mexican President’s Comments Spark Controversy
The Mexican President, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, recently claimed that “Mexico is safer than the United States” and that there is no problem with traveling safely around Mexico. However, this statement has been met with controversy, particularly as violent incidents continue to occur targeting American tourists.
The State Department advisory urges travelers to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. Despite these warnings, thousands of American citizens visit Mexico annually for spring break getaways.
Two Americans Allegedly Kidnapped and Killed by Drug Cartel
In another incident involving American tourists in Mexico, two individuals were allegedly kidnapped and killed by a drug cartel while traveling for cheap medical procedures. The Gulf cartel claimed responsibility and handed over the members involved to authorities.
White House Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre condemned attacks on U.S. citizens regardless of where or under what circumstances they happen. These incidents highlight the ongoing risks faced by Americans traveling to certain parts of Mexico.
17-Year-Old American Minor Shot in Cancun
In a separate incident, a 17-year-old American minor was shot in the right thigh while on vacation with his mother at the Royalton Riviera resort in Cancun. The motive for the attack is unknown, and there is no information available on the suspect.
Questions have been raised about the location of the incident, as the area is known for its quiet vacation offerings. However, quick medical aid was provided by the resort doctor who stabilized the victim before he was taken to Hospiten hospital in Cancun for further medical care.
Private medical companies provide resort doctors in Cancun and Riviera Maya and are available 24/7 in case of medical emergencies. While Cancun remains a popular tourist destination, precautions must be taken when traveling to this region.
U.S. Tourists at Risk in Mexico’s Caribbean Coast
The shooting of an American tourist in Puerto Morelos highlights the danger faced by U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico’s Caribbean coast resorts. The U.S. State Department issued a travel alert for these regions, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, due to drug gang violence.
In recent years, there have been several acts of violence along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, including the killing of two Canadians in Playa del Carmen in 2022. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Cancun or other similar locations, it’s recommended that travelers purchase travel insurance and take necessary personal precautions.
In conclusion, American tourists remain at risk while traveling to certain parts of Mexico’s Quintana Roo state despite warnings from the State Department. It’s crucial for travelers to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while abroad.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
