Chaos Erupts in Puerto Vallarta and Other Mexican Cities After Killing of Cartel Leader 'El Mencho' Sparks Widespread Violence

February 23, 2026 – Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – A massive wave of retaliatory violence from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has paralyzed parts of Mexico, including the popular tourist hub of Puerto Vallarta, following the death of its longtime leader, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, alias "El Mencho."

Mexican authorities confirmed that Oseguera Cervantes, 59, was fatally wounded during a high-profile military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, on Sunday, February 22, 2026. He succumbed to his injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City. The raid, supported by U.S. intelligence, resulted in the deaths of several CJNG members (reports vary from six to eight), with Mexican forces suffering casualties as well.

This marked a major victory for President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration and a significant blow to the CJNG, long designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. for its role in fentanyl trafficking and extreme brutality. Oseguera had a $15 million U.S. bounty and had evaded capture for over a decade.

In response, CJNG loyalists unleashed coordinated attacks, setting up hundreds of "narcobloqueos" — roadblocks using burning vehicles, buses, trucks, and other barricades — across at least 20 states, including Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Guerrero, and others. Authorities reported around 85 such blockades at the peak on Sunday, with arson targeting businesses (including a Costco and gas stations in Puerto Vallarta), vehicles, and infrastructure. Clashes between armed groups and security forces left streets filled with smoke and chaos.

In Puerto Vallarta, a key resort destination favored by American and Canadian tourists, plumes of black smoke rose from torched vehicles and structures. Videos and reports showed burnt buses, fires at commercial sites, and panic at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), where passengers sought cover amid disruptions. Access roads to the airport were blocked, leading to widespread flight cancellations and suspensions by major carriers including Air Canada, Southwest, Alaska, Delta, United, American, Aeroméxico, and others for PVR and nearby Guadalajara (GDL). Taxi and rideshare services halted operations, and the city activated emergency protocols, with many residents and visitors sheltering in place.

The U.S. Embassy and State Department issued urgent security alerts for Jalisco (including Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Chapala) and other affected areas, advising American citizens to shelter in place, avoid crowds and unnecessary travel, and monitor local media. Updates noted that while violence appeared largely directed at authorities and infrastructure rather than tourists directly, the blockades, fires, and unrest created broad risks. Canada and other governments issued similar warnings, with some tourists reporting being stranded. By Monday afternoon, officials indicated that order was being restored in many areas, with some states returning to normal, though Puerto Vallarta and parts of Jalisco remained under caution.

Casualties from the unrest were significant: at least 25 National Guard members killed in Jalisco alone across multiple attacks, plus dozens of suspected cartel members and others, bringing total deaths related to the operation and aftermath to at least 62–73 according to various reports. No widespread civilian tourist casualties were confirmed, but isolated incidents occurred amid the chaos. Mexican forces deployed thousands of additional troops (over 9,500 total reported) to clear roads and restore order.

El Mencho's death, hailed by the U.S. (including under the Trump administration's pressure on cartels) as a win against fentanyl networks, has raised fears of further instability as CJNG factions potentially vie for control. Puerto Vallarta, typically promoted for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and relative safety compared to other regions, now grapples with severe tourism disruptions. Many resorts instructed guests to remain on property, with some reports of limited evacuations.

The Santa Monica Observer will continue to track developments in Puerto Vallarta and nationwide. Travelers with upcoming plans to Mexico, especially Jalisco, should consult official U.S. State Department advisories, airline updates, and local guidance. U.S. citizens in the area are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy and follow authorities' instructions closely.