Puerto Vallarta Violence: Flights Halted, Shelter-in-Place Orders Issued After Cartel Leader’s Death

Violence erupted across Mexico, including the popular tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, following the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The unrest prompted the U.S. Embassy to issue a shelter-in-place order for U.S. Citizens in Jalisco and led to the cancellation of numerous flights to and from the region.

Cartel Leader Killed, Retaliatory Violence Ensues

Mexican security forces killed El Mencho during a military operation in the state of Jalisco on February 22, 2026, according to Mexico’s Ministry of Defense CBS News. The operation, reportedly aided by U.S. Intelligence CBS News, triggered a wave of retaliatory violence from the CJNG. Suspected cartel members set vehicles and businesses on fire and blocked roads in over half a dozen states MSN.

Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions

In response to the escalating violence, both U.S. And Canadian airlines suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Airlines affected include Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines CNBC. Airlines are waiving change fees for affected travelers. As of Monday afternoon, February 23, 2026, some airlines began resuming flights out of Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara MSN. Travelers are advised to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight status.

U.S. Citizens Advised to Shelter in Place

The U.S. State Department issued a shelter-in-place order on Sunday, February 23, 2026, for U.S. Citizens in Jalisco, citing “ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity” CNBC. U.S. Travelers in Puerto Vallarta were also urged to shelter in place due to the ongoing violence NBC Los Angeles.

Impact on Locals and Tourists

Reports indicate that several Mexican states also canceled school on Monday, February 24, 2026, following El Mencho’s death CNBC. A North Dakota family vacationing in Puerto Vallarta described witnessing military helicopters patrolling the area and seeing smoke rising from burning vehicles NBC Los Angeles. Locals in Guadalajara reportedly locked themselves inside their homes for safety.

U.S. Support and Mexican Response

The U.S. Provided intelligence support for the operation that led to El Mencho’s death CBS News. Yet, a U.S. Defense official emphasized that it was a Mexican military operation CBS News. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that “peace, security and normalcy” are being maintained across the country CBS News.

Resources for Stranded Travelers

U.S. Citizens in Mexico who require assistance can contact the following:

• From Mexico: (55) 8526 2561
• From the United States: +1-844-528-6611
• Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444

Additional information is available on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico website: [Link to U.S. Embassy Website – Placeholder]