These are the harrowing moments a gunman atop the Pyramid of the Moon, one of Mexico’s most popular archaeological sites in Teotihuacan about 30 miles north of Mexico City, opened fire on tourists and taunted first responders.
Mexican authorities identified the suspect as Julio Jasso Ramírez. Officials say he threatened rescuers and hostages with remarks prosecutors later summarized as “I have hostages, and if you try to climb up, I’ll kill them” and “if you move, I will sacrifice you.” They allege he killed a Canadian tourist and injured 13 others, including six Americans; some victims were shot and others hurt while scrambling down the pyramid’s steep steps.
Investigators reported the gunman carried a backpack containing ammunition, knives, gloves and goggles. They also said he left notes that likely referenced the 1999 Columbine shooting, and authorities are probing how he obtained the weapons, including possible black‑market sources.
Tourists who were there described sudden chaos as shots rang out. Greg Magadini of Boise, Idaho, told reporters that by the second shot it was clear an active‑shooter situation, and people were screaming, running and ducking.
Mexican officials said they are investigating the motives and the gunman’s writings. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said authorities will take measures to prevent a similar incident in the future. Authorities continue treating the event as a criminal investigation as they work to confirm all facts and identify how the attacker planned and equipped the assault.