Cartel Violence Erupts in Puerto Vallarta After High‑Profile Arrest, Costco and Roads Set Ablaze

 

Violence has erupted in Puerto Vallarta and other parts of Mexico’s Jalisco state, with images and videos circulating online showing burning vehicles, blocked roads, and even a Costco in flames as tensions spike following a significant security operation earlier this week.

Here’s what we know so far.

🔥 What Triggered the Violence

The unrest began after Mexican security forces reportedly killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” the infamous leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent criminal organizations.

Cartels often respond violently to the loss of a top leader, and in this case, supporters of CJNG launched coordinated attacks on infrastructure to distract and target authorities.

🔥 Chaos in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast, has seen:

• Roads blocked with burning vehicles

• Shops and vehicles set ablaze

• Smoke rising in urban areas

• Tourists and locals forced to shelter in place

• A Costco store reportedly set on fire

These attacks are part of a wider pattern of retaliation that has affected multiple cities across Jalisco state, not just Puerto Vallarta.

✈️ Travel Disruptions and Safety Alerts

The violence has had immediate effects on travel and daily life:

• Multiple flights have been delayed or canceled at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport

• Tourists and residents have been advised to shelter in place

• Major roads have been blocked due to fires and protests

• Local authorities have issued safety warnings

Governments, including those of the United States and Canada, have warned citizens in Mexico to stay alert and avoid non‑essential travel to the region.

📸 Eyewitness Reports

Videos circulating on social media show intense scenes:

• A Costco parking lot surrounded by smoke and flames

• Vehicles ablaze on highways and secondary roads

• People taking cover or quickly leaving affected areas

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In one widely shared account, a Canadian tourist described hiding inside a Costco as the violence unfolded around the store.

These scenes are driving both national and international concern about safety in the region.

🧠 Why It Escalated

Cartel violence in Mexico is not new, but this represents a major escalation due to:

💥 1. The Death of a Cartel Leader

Removing a top leader like El Mencho often triggers violent reprisals from cartel factions seeking revenge or trying to assert control.

💥 2. CJNG’s Influence

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is one of Mexico’s most powerful criminal groups, with widespread influence across states and even internationally.

💥 3. Retaliation Tactics

Attacking infrastructure and creating chaos is a known tactic used by cartels to challenge law enforcement and strain government response.

🧱 What Authorities Are Doing

Mexican authorities, including federal and local police, are now:

• Working to contain the violence

• Sending security forces to affected hotspots

• Clearing roads blocked by burning vehicles

• Coordinating with national agencies to restore order

While the situation remains dangerous, security forces are actively trying to stabilize the region and prevent further escalation.

📍 What This Means for Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is normally a peaceful tourist hub known for beaches, resorts, and nightlife. This violence has:

✔ Affected resident safety

✔ Disrupted travel and tourism

✔ Raised concerns about public confidence

✔ Pressured authorities to respond quickly

Officials have not yet said when normal activities will fully resume, and the federal government is monitoring the situation closely.

📝 Final Take

This latest surge of violence shows how fragile security can be in regions affected by cartel power struggles. What began as a targeted operation by Mexican forces quickly spiraled into broader retaliation, affecting daily life, tourism, and public safety in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas.

As authorities work to restore order, residents and visitors are being urged to stay home, avoid travel in affected areas, and follow official updates from Mexican security agencies.

And now they are burning down the Costco in Puerto Vallarta. #Mexico pic.twitter.com/XrPuVy82WP

— Mr ashen (@TheOfficialMrA1) February 22, 2026