Californians 'hunkering down' in Puerto Vallarta after cartel violence - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Jenny Jarvie, Hannah Fry

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Californians and other U.S. tourists and expatriates in Mexico were forced to shelter in place as cartel violence erupted across several beach resort towns following the killing of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico’s most-wanted drug trafficker by Mexican security forces. The chaos began on Sunday when armed groups retaliated by setting cars and buses ablaze, blocking highways, and causing widespread panic in popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Craig Chamberlain, a Newport Beach resident staying in Puerto Vallarta, recounted his harrowing experience when an armed man demanded his car at gunpoint. The couple, along with 15 others, including elderly individuals and families with young children, took refuge in a restaurant as fires broke out around them. The situation was particularly jolting for many, as Puerto Vallarta is often considered one of Mexico’s safest cities. By Monday, while the violence had subsided in some areas, U.S. citizens were still advised to remain indoors in affected regions, including Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Tijuana. The impact on daily life was immediate. Local businesses like pharmacies and banks were targeted, with one bus carrying a propane tank exploding after being set on fire. This led to widespread disruption, leaving many tourists stranded and flights canceled. Katy Holloman, a makeup artist from El Dorado Hills, had her return flight canceled and expressed concern about making it home safely. Meanwhile, Wesley Eure, an actor living in Puerto Vallarta for six months of the year, described the scene as “all hell breaking loose,” with his gym and bank building damaged by explosions. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of cartel-related violence in Mexico and its far-reaching effects on both tourists and expatriates. While many expressed gratitude for the kindness of local residents, such as restaurant staff offering free meals during the crisis, the events underscore the ongoing safety challenges faced by those traveling or living in the region. For readers interested in news about international travel safety and the broader implications of cartel activity, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in visiting or residing in areas affected by such violence.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/23/2026