A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Mexico this week when a California couple visiting for the holidays was shot and killed by gunmen. Rafael and Gloria Cardona, who had traveled to Angamacutiro in Michoacán state to visit family, were attacked on Wednesday while driving. Gloria passed away at the scene, and Rafael succumbed to his injuries at the hospital shortly after, according to authorities.
Thankfully, their three children were not present during the shooting. Two of the children are minors, and they are now staying with extended family in Angamacutiro. The couple’s adult daughter is in contact with the U.S. State Department, which has confirmed the tragedy and extended condolences to the family.
The couple’s vehicle—a van—belonged to Hermes Arnulfo Pacheco Bribiesca, a government official in Angamacutiro and Rafael’s brother-in-law. Hermes had recently assumed office after the previous official was kidnapped and murdered in October. This link has drawn attention, but so far, authorities have not identified a motive for the attack.
Rafael and Gloria had arrived in Michoacán on November 30. A local mass will be held on Saturday to honor their memory, and the municipality has canceled all planned celebrations for the rest of December as a sign of mourning.
Michoacán, a beautiful region known for being Mexico’s largest avocado producer, has long struggled with gang violence. Cartels first moved into the area in the 1980s, and today, the state’s homicide rate is more than double the national average. Organized crime groups often target local farmers and have made Michoacán a hub for drug production. Violent groups and corruption have plagued the region, even affecting its lucrative avocado market.
In recent years, Mexico has faced a broader crisis of violence. Over 100,000 people are missing, with little information about their fate, and about 95% of crimes nationwide went unsolved in 2022, according to reports.
This tragic loss highlights the ongoing challenges many families face in regions like Michoacán. As authorities investigate this heartbreaking incident, Rafael and Gloria’s loved ones are left grappling with an unimaginable loss during what should have been a season of joy and togetherness.
