SUMMARY
- Chicagoans caught in narco violence in Mexico sheltered as transport routes closed.
- Violence spread across tourist corridors after a cartel crackdown.
- US officials urged Americans to remain indoors.
Chicago travelers were ordered to shelter in place Sunday in Puerto Vallarta after coordinated arson and gun attacks erupted following the capture and reported death of a powerful cartel leader in western Mexico.
At least eight Chicagoans were confined indoors in Puerto Vallarta as armed groups blocked roads burned vehicles and fired weapons, disrupting travel and daily life in a city long viewed as secure.
The unrest followed actions against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel led by Rubén Oseguera Cervantes.
Authorities reported retaliatory attacks across Jalisco and neighboring states including roadblocks bus burnings and shootings.
Jonathan Pizer district community liaison for US Rep. Mike Quigley said gunmen forced him from a car before detonating it. Brad Lippitz remained sheltered elsewhere Sunday night.
David Shirk director of global policy at the University of San Diego said cartels often stage rapid spectacles to pressure authorities and control territory.
Security analyst Alejandro Hope said tourist hubs can face spillover when enforcement targets leadership.
The US State Department said Americans in Puerto Vallarta Cancun and Tulum should shelter in place. Quigley said his office was coordinating assistance for constituents seeking to depart.
Mexican authorities said airports remained open though some flights were canceled or diverted. Officials emphasized patrols and phased reopening of streets. Events highlight risks to civilians.
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