An American mother visiting Mexico has been temporarily separated from her teenage son after violence erupted across parts of the country following the killing of cartel leader Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes.
Priscilla, a California resident whose last name is being withheld for safety reasons, arrived in the city of Tepic over the weekend to visit family. Her teenage son had spent the night at a cousin's home approximately 20 minutes away from their hotel.
By Sunday morning, unrest had spread across multiple states, and authorities began issuing shelter-in-place warnings. Because of those restrictions, she has been unable to reach him in person.
"He's safe," she said, "but I can't get to him."
A Visit That Quickly Turned Into Uncertainty
Priscilla said she has traveled to Mexico regularly since childhood and had never witnessed anything like the events that unfolded.
"I've been coming to Mexico all my life, ever since I was a little girl, and I've never encountered something like this," she said.
She described seeing vehicles set on fire by suspected cartel members near her location. Soon afterward, the streets became unusually quiet.
"All you could hear were ambulances," she recalled.
Her hotel, once active with guests and staff, grew still. She estimated only a few employees remained on duty. Restaurants and nearby establishments closed, leaving families unsure when they would be able to access meals or resume normal activities.
Violence Spreads After Cartel Leader's Death
The unrest followed the killing of El Mencho, the longtime head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a Mexican military operation in the western state of Jalisco. The operation quickly escalated into widespread unrest, leaving US tourists stranded as violence spread across 20 states.
Mexican officials reported more than 250 blockades nationwide, with vehicles set ablaze, highways obstructed and businesses damaged in retaliatory actions. Security forces were deployed across multiple regions as authorities worked to stabilize affected areas.
For a broader look at how El Mencho's killing sparked nationwide violence and travel disruptions, including airport cancellations and official advisories, see our full report.
Families Waiting for Calm to Return
While authorities have said many roadblocks have since been cleared, tensions remain in some areas as security operations continue.
For families like Priscilla's, the immediate concern is safety and reunion. She confirmed her son is safe where he is staying, but until movement restrictions are lifted, she must wait.
Moments like these highlight how quickly ordinary travel plans can be disrupted by sudden unrest. Visitors and residents alike are navigating fear, uncertainty and separation while hoping for stability to return.
Join Us in Praying for Peace
As communities across Mexico face unrest and families endure unexpected separation, this is a time to lift up those affected in prayer.
Please join us in praying:
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For the safety of children and families caught in the violence
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For travelers stranded far from home
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For protection over local communities
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For wisdom and safety for authorities working to restore order
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For lasting peace across the region
In seasons of uncertainty, prayer becomes a steady anchor. May those waiting for calm experience protection, comfort and hope in the days ahead.
