My family winters in Puerto Vallarta and we're leaving early due to the cartel violence. We'll come back as soon as we can.
Business Insider
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A family based between New York and Mexico shares their harrowing experience of fleeing Puerto Vallarta due to an unprecedented surge in cartel violence. Matthew Breen, a podcast producer and talent manager who has wintered in the city for years, describes how his family’s idyllic routine was disrupted by violent clashes that left streets littered with burned-out cars and buildings reduced to rubble. The normally safe Zona Romántica area saw chaos unfold over the weekend, including car chases, gunpoint robberies, and exploding vehicles, forcing Breen and his family to rebook their flights home early.
The violence caught residents off guard, as the area was previously known for its safety. Breen details how he and his neighbors witnessed terrifying scenes, including a car chase with gunmen on motorcycles and a mattress store engulfed in flames. Despite the quiet that followed, the damage was evident: burned-out vehicles, smoldering tourist buses, and destroyed convenience stores and hotels. Military helicopters circled overhead as authorities stepped up their presence.
The family had originally planned to stay until late March but is now leaving提前to ensure their safety. Breen reflects on the resilience of Puerto Vallarta, which has faced challenges like hurricanes before. While locals are cautiously optimistic about the town’s recovery, they emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses during this uncertain time. The situation highlights the impact of cartel violence not only on residents but also on tourism and business in the region.
For those interested in business, the incident underscores the risks posed by instability in popular tourist destinations. While Puerto Vallarta is known for its resilience, the recent events raise questions about the long-term
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/24/2026