**Mexicali Violence: 215 Homicides in 2024 Surpass Previous Year’s Numbers**
On December 1st, Mexicali marked its 215th registered homicide in 2024, exceeding the total number of killings reported in 2023, which was 203. The most recent incident occurred in the Paraísos de Puebla neighborhood on December 3rd.
According to Perla, the victim’s companion, the fatal incident unfolded near the intersection of Ignacio Zaragoza and Totolapa streets. Perla and her husband, Saúl, were in a black 1998 Chevrolet Suburban when a newer model Honda Civic blocked their path. Three masked and armed men emerged from the Honda, forcibly removed Saúl from the Suburban, and took him towards a nearby canal.
Upon receiving Perla’s report, officers from the Mexicali Public Security Directorate rushed to the site and located the Suburban at the irrigation canal. Inside the vehicle, Saúl was found with gunshot wounds to the head. Paramedics from the Red Cross declared him dead at the scene.
This case is notable as being the first homicide recorded in December 2024, with October being the deadliest month of the year with 35 violent deaths. The Director of Mexicali’s Municipal Police, Luis Felipe Chan, stated that there have been no arrests linked to this crime yet. The Baja California State Attorney General’s Office is actively investigating the incident.
**Secondary Article – Rising Crime Rates in Mexicali: A Growing Concern**
The situation in Mexicali is part of a broader trend of increasing violence across several regions in Mexico as law enforcement faces growing challenges in addressing organized crime and street gang violence. The rise in crime has sparked fear and concern among residents, with public safety becoming a priority issue.
Criminal activities, mostly related to drug trafficking and territorial disputes among rival gangs, have contributed significantly to the mounting number of homicides. Authorities are under pressure to implement effective strategies to curb the violence and ensure safety for local communities.
The city officials urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement as investigations continue, seeking to restore peace and stability to the region.