Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — February 25, 2026.- Despite a weekend of cartel-related violence that shook Puerto Vallarta, many Americans who have made Mexico their permanent home say they still feel safe and are not considering leaving. The unrest followed the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel. In retaliation, cartel members set vehicles ablaze and attacked businesses, leaving parts of the scenic resort city scarred.
For expatriates living in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas, the violence was a stark reminder of Mexico’s ongoing struggle with organized crime. Yet residents expressed resilience. “It’s not the Wild West down here,” said Charity Palmatier, who lives year-round near the city. She emphasized that daily life continues largely undisturbed, with communities banding together and local authorities working quickly to restore order.
Tourists and seasonal visitors were urged to shelter in place during the height of the violence, and the U.S. Consulate issued warnings to travelers. Still, long-term American residents distinguish between isolated cartel flare-ups and their overall experience of safety. Many point to strong neighborhood ties, vibrant cultural life, and the appeal of Mexico’s climate and affordability as reasons they remain committed to living there.
While the images of burned shops and armed patrols were unsettling, residents insist such incidents do not define their everyday reality. For them, Puerto Vallarta remains a place of beauty and community, where the risks are outweighed by the rewards of life in Mexico.
With information from NBCNews.com
