Gunman Targets Aides of Mexico City Mayor in Roadside Shooting

Two aides of Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada were killed in a targeted roadside shooting, heightening concerns over the surge in violence against politicians in Mexico.

In a shocking incident that underscores the growing violence against public officials in Mexico, a gunman has fatally shot two top aides of Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada. The victims, Ximena Guzmán, the mayor's private secretary, and her adviser, José Muñoz, were ambushed while en route to work in broad daylight on a busy avenue on Tuesday morning.

Witness accounts reported that the assailant approached Guzmán's vehicle as she pulled over to pick up Muñoz, opening fire without hesitation. The gunman is believed to have fled the scene on a motorcycle, possibly with an accomplice, as investigators search for clues regarding his identity and motive. This incident emerges amidst a troubling trend of violence targeting politicians across the nation.

Brugada, who has held the mayoral office since June 2022, expressed her devastation during a news briefing, describing Guzmán and Muñoz as trusted colleagues with whom she had shared many goals. She vowed to ensure justice for their murders. President Claudia Sheinbaum reacted to the attack during her daily news session, expressing her condolences and offering support to the mayor, who shares her political affiliation.

As police began their investigation, they recovered a motorcycle and a vehicle purportedly used in the crime. Meanwhile, forensic specialists analyzed the bullet-riddled car where Guzmán was shot. CCTV footage captured the assailant armed with a gun and motorcycle helmet, illustrating the calculated manner of the attack.

Although attacks on local political figures are more common in smaller towns, this incident is notable due to its occurrence in the capital, a city that has witnessed less frequent political violence. The city has a history of high-profile attacks, including the 2020 ambush of former police chief Omar García Harfuch, who survived despite being wounded multiple times.

While authorities have yet to determine the motive or potential suspects behind this latest shooting, experts suggest the professional execution-style aspect of the crime indicates that a skilled hitman may have been involved. The public and law enforcement remain on alert as they grapple with a disturbing escalation of violence directed towards those in power.