Satellite images show fires, roadblocks, and cars burning in a Costco parking lot after cartel violence in Mexico
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
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Satellite images reveal widespread chaos in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, following a deadly raid that killed the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The operation, carried out by Mexican forces on Sunday, targeted Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, whose death triggered retaliatory violence across the country. Satellite imagery captured by US-based firm Vantor shows fires, roadblocks, and burning vehicles in areas like a Costco parking lot, a shopping mall, and an Autozone store. The resort town, known for its tourism, particularly during winter months, is now engulfed in flames and chaos, with residents and authorities struggling to contain the situation.
The raid in Talpalpa, Jalisco state, resulted in the deaths of three additional cartel members, while two others were arrested. Mexican forces reported that three soldiers were injured during the operation. Retaliatory attacks by other criminal groups led to clashes with security forces, further escalating the violence. Social media has been flooded with images and videos from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, where flights have been canceled and American citizens advised to shelter in place.
President Donald Trump had designated the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as a foreign terrorist organization last year, and the US provided intelligence support for the operation that led to El Mencho's death. The Trump administration has prioritized combating Latin American cartels, encouraging a tougher stance against them through military action and diplomatic efforts. The violence in Puerto Vallarta underscores the far-reaching impact of cartel activity on public safety and economic stability.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by Mexican authorities in maintaining control over criminal groups, especially after high-profile operations like
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026