A deadly shooting has shaken one of Mexico’s most iconic tourist destinations after a gunman opened fire near the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan on April 20, 2026.

According to reports, a Canadian tourist was killed and more than a dozen people were injured in the attack. The gunman later died by suicide, with authorities yet to release his identity.

Witness footage circulating online shows the attacker firing from the top of one of the pyramids, sending visitors scrambling for cover in panic across the archaeological site.

The incident has raised serious concerns about security at one of the most visited landmarks in the country. Teotihuacan, located just outside Mexico City, attracts millions of visitors each year. In 2025 alone, the site received approximately 1.8 million tourists.

Built between the 1st and 7th centuries, the ancient city is one of the most significant archaeological complexes in the Americas. It sits at an altitude of around 2,000 meters and is surrounded by mountains to the south and a chain of extinct volcanoes to the north.

The site is home to some of the largest pyramids in Mesoamerica, including the Pyramid of the Sun, which ranks among the tallest pyramids in the world. Teotihuacan is also known for its vast urban layout, including the famous “Avenue of the Dead,” and its well-preserved murals that offer insight into early civilizations.

Authorities are expected to review security measures at major tourist sites following the attack, as questions grow over how the gunman was able to access the elevated structures and carry out the shooting in a crowded area.

The tragedy comes at a time when Mexico continues to promote its cultural heritage to international travelers, making the incident particularly significant for the country’s tourism sector.

Photo:  German Rojas