A gunman opened fire at the Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacán on April 20, killing a Canadian tourist and injuring several others before dying himself. Authorities identified the attacker as Julio César N., a 27-year-old from northern Mexico City, who had expressed admiration for fascist ideology and the Columbine massacre.
- Date: April 20, 2026
- Location: Pyramid of the Moon, Teotihuacán, State of Mexico
- Victims:
- One Canadian tourist killed (32 years old)
- Seven people wounded by gunfire
- Six others injured in the chaos
- Attacker: Julio César N., 27, originally from Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico City
Witnesses reported panic as the gunman fired repeatedly from the top of the pyramid, forcing tourists to take cover. Videos circulating online show visitors lying flat on the ground while shots rang out.
Attacker’s Profile
- Linked to far-right extremist ideology, including admiration for Adolf Hitler.
- Published images performing the Nazi salute.
- Wore a shirt with the phrase “Disconnect & Self-Destruct”, associated with online “True Crime Community” forums.
- Attack coincided with Hitler’s birthday and the anniversary of the Columbine school massacre (April 20, 1999).
Authorities’ Response
- Initial reports suggested the attacker committed suicide, though other footage shows National Guard forces engaging him.
- Officials have not clarified the exact circumstances of his death.
- Investigations continue into his motives and possible online radicalization.
Broader Context
- The attack highlights a new form of violence in Mexico, distinct from cartel-related crime.
- Experts warn of the spread of nihilistic and performative violence, often linked to extremist online communities.
- The incident follows other recent acts of youth violence in Mexico, raising concerns about radicalization and misogynistic online movements.
The Teotihuacán shooting shocked Mexico, exposing the influence of extremist ideologies and online hate communities. While authorities investigate, the tragedy underscores the need for vigilance against radicalization and new forms of violence beyond organized crime.
