Deadly Morning in Loreto: Community Shaken After Child Among Victims in Town’s Worst Mass Killing

Loreto, Baja California Sur — What had long been considered one of Mexico’s quietest coastal towns awoke Tuesday to its deadliest tragedy on record. Among the victims of a brutal attack on a local family was a 10-year-old boy — a detail that has deepened public outrage and rattled a community that once took pride in its sense of safety.

A coordinated morning of violence

According to the Baja California Sur Security Coordination Board — which includes federal, state and local agencies — gunfire was reported around 7 a.m. in two different locations within the INVI-Miramar neighborhood.

At the first scene, on Calle Diez between Honduras and Nicaragua, officers found five people shot. Four were pronounced dead at the site: a child, 10; two young adults, 18 and 21; and a 48-year-old man. A fifth victim, a man estimated to be about 22, was rushed to a hospital for emergency treatment.

Minutes later, responders located two additional bodies — a man and a woman — on Acueducto Street and an unnamed road nearby. Authorities said their identities and ages are still being confirmed.

State investigators have opened a criminal inquiry to determine what led to the two attacks and who may be responsible. Security forces have deployed a sustained patrol operation in and around Loreto to stabilize the area and prevent further violence.

Local officials appeal for federal intervention

Loreto’s mayor, Paz Ochoa Amador, posted a public message saying she had formally requested support from Mexico’s federal security chief, Omar García Harfuch. She added that personnel from the Mexican Navy and other federal agencies are now en route, working under coordination with state governor Víctor Manuel Castro Cosío.

“I will do everything within my responsibility for my Loreto,” the mayor wrote.

Political response and broader concerns

Federal lawmaker Manuel Cota Cárdenas — a Green Party representative who recently voted in favor of a national budget cut that impacts Baja California Sur — issued a statement condemning the attacks. He expressed condolences to the families and acknowledged that a minor was among those killed.

Cota Cárdenas called for stronger institutional coordination and reiterated his commitment to supporting security efforts, saying, “BCS is home to hardworking, decent people. We cannot allow violence to define us.”

Still, the killings have reignited criticism over weakening security conditions across the state and what residents say has been a slow, reactive response to rising threats. Loreto, internationally known as a peaceful eco-tourism destination, is now confronting a crisis that has left many fearful and demanding immediate reforms.

A community in grief

The killing of a 10-year-old boy has become the emotional breaking point for many locals, who say such violence was once unimaginable in their town. Residents are calling for permanent federal reinforcement, transparent investigations and a long-term security plan.

Loreto now faces not only the trauma of its worst mass killing, but also the urgent challenge of rebuilding trust — and reclaiming the peace it once took for granted.