Julio César Jasso Ramírez: The Man Behind the Teotihuacán Pyramids Shooting

On April 20, 2026, a mass shooting unfolded at the Teotihuacán archaeological site in Mexico, leaving one Canadian tourist dead and 13 others injured before the gunman took his own life. The incident, which occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. Local time, has drawn international attention due to its location at one of Mexico’s most visited pre-Columbian sites and the shooter’s alleged connections to extremist ideologies.

Who Was Julio César Jasso Ramírez?

According to the Attorney General’s Office of the State of Mexico, the perpetrator was identified as 27-year-old Julio César Jasso Ramírez, born on September 9, 1998, and a native of Mexico City residing in the Gustavo A. Madero borough.

Investigators revealed that Jasso Ramírez checked into a hotel near Teotihuacán on April 19, 2026, the day before the attack. Authorities recovered a Smith & Wesson Model 10 revolver, a knife (which was not used), and live ammunition at the scene.

Details of the Attack

The shooting began when Jasso Ramírez argued with several individuals before ascending to the top of the Pyramid of the Moon. From this vantage point, he opened fire on visitors below. Eyewitness accounts and video footage indicate he fired between 20 and 30 shots, reloading at least once before continuing the attack. A tour guide reported hearing the initial gunfire, and one witness described hearing more than 20 shots.

After the initial barrage, Jasso Ramírez allegedly ordered a group of visitors to lie on the ground before moving to another position and resuming fire. The attack resulted in the death of a 78-year-old Canadian woman and injuries to 13 others, seven of whom sustained gunshot wounds. The remaining six injuries were attributed to falls or other trauma incurred while attempting to flee or take cover.

When National Guard personnel arrived approximately ten minutes after the initial report, they confronted the shooter. Jasso Ramírez fired at the guards, who returned fire, wounding him in the leg. At 11:45 a.m., he died by suicide at the scene.

Motive and Investigative Findings

The motive behind the attack remains under investigation. Yet, authorities disclosed that Jasso Ramírez had expressed admiration for the 1999 Columbine High School massacre and had connections to fascist and far-right ideologies. Notes referencing U.S. Mass shootings were found in his possession, suggesting a desire to emulate such events.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Jasso Ramírez acted alone. The State of Mexico Prosecutor’s Office confirmed there was no evidence of accomplices, and the attack appears to have been a solitary act of violence.

Aftermath and Response

The shooting occurred just weeks before Mexico was set to host millions of visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising concerns about public security and the nation’s ability to ensure safety for international tourists. Mexican authorities, including the Secretary of Government for the State of Mexico, confirmed that eight individuals remained hospitalized following the incident, with several in serious condition.

In response, security forces increased patrols at major archaeological sites and tourist destinations across the country. The incident has prompted renewed discussions about balancing accessibility to cultural heritage sites with robust security measures to protect visitors.

Key Takeaways

• The Teotihuacán pyramids shooting on April 20, 2026, resulted in one fatality and 13 injuries.

• The perpetrator, Julio César Jasso Ramírez, was a 27-year-old Mexico City native with ties to extremist ideologies.

• Authorities confirmed the shooter acted alone and died by suicide after being wounded by National Guard forces.

• The attack has intensified scrutiny on Mexico’s security preparedness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at the Teotihuacán pyramids on April 20, 2026?

A 27-year-old man opened fire from the Pyramid of the Moon, killing one tourist and injuring 13 others before taking his own life.

Who was the shooter?

The perpetrator was identified as Julio César Jasso Ramírez, a resident of Mexico City’s Gustavo A. Madero borough.

What weapons were used in the attack?

Authorities recovered a Smith & Wesson Model 10 revolver and a knife (unused), along with live ammunition.

Was the shooter acting alone?

Yes, preliminary investigations indicate that Julio César Jasso Ramírez acted without accomplices.

How has Mexico responded to the incident?

Security has been heightened at tourist sites, and the event has raised concerns about public safety ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.