During the Day of the Dead celebrations in the heart of Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico, a festive atmosphere turned to chaos when independent mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez was fatally shot on the night of November 1, 2025. (Washington Post) A now-viral video captures the harrowing moment when gunfire erupted amid a crowd gathered to honor one of Mexico’s most important cultural traditions.
Manzo, who had served as mayor since September 2024 after running as an independent candidate, was known for his outspoken stance against organized crime. Despite receiving state and federal security protection—reinforced earlier this year—he was targeted during a public cultural event, underscoring the persistent danger faced by local leaders in Michoacán.
The assassination sparked outrage and grief across Uruapan and throughout Mexico. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration pledged that justice would be served and that impunity would not prevail. (Reuters) Thousands of citizens have since taken to the streets demanding accountability. The killing adds to the growing list of violent attacks on public officials in Mexico, exposing the fragile state of security even in moments meant for peace and celebration.