British Columbia residents stuck in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, woke up to chaos with explosions and burning vehicles following violence that led to a shelter-in-place directive and flight disruptions to and from the popular coastal city.
Yogi Omar, a Vancouver local on a trip to Puerto Vallarta, initially mistook the early Sunday morning sounds for fireworks before realizing the severity of the situation. Witnessing cars exploding all around, he described the scene as resembling a war zone.
Due to a car being set on fire near a gas station across the street, Omar and fellow guests in the apartment building had to evacuate briefly. Subsequently, he sought refuge at a nearby residence with about 200 others.
Facing a shortage of food, Omar expressed the group’s desperation for sustenance, emphasizing the primary concern for safety amidst the turmoil.
Known for its inclusive environment, especially for the LGBTQ+ community, Puerto Vallarta, situated in the state of Jalisco, is a favorite destination for many like Omar, who considers it a haven. Despite its vibrant party scene, the area boasts rich cultural and artistic offerings suitable for a diverse range of visitors.
The recent violence has shattered the sense of security that Puerto Vallarta typically provides, as Omar and others grapple with the unexpected disruption to their travel plans.
Flight disruptions were widespread, affecting routes between Puerto Vallarta and various airports in British Columbia. Notably, several flights to and from Puerto Vallarta were canceled, leading to significant travel disturbances for Canadian passengers.
The unrest also prompted a travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada, warning of the shelter-in-place order in effect for Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas due to the escalating violence.
As federal authorities executed a special forces operation targeting Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the situation in the region intensified. The governor of Jalisco announced the suspension of public transport until order is restored, following acts of sabotage by individuals impeding law enforcement efforts.
Witnesses like Leigh Carter from Courtenay, B.C., recounted scenes of chaos, including loud explosions and strategic placement of burned vehicles at critical points in Puerto Vallarta. The disruption has left travelers like Ryan Voutilainen stranded, with canceled flights and uncertainties about when normalcy will return to the city.
Authorities have advised residents and visitors in Jalisco to remain indoors until the security situation improves, as the community grapples with the aftermath of the violent events.