A tragic incident occurred in Mexico, where a couple from California was shot and killed while on vacation. The victims, Rafael Cardona, 53, and Gloria Ambriz, 50, were attacked by gunmen in their pickup truck on the night of December 11 in Angamacutiro, Michoacán.
Reports indicate that their vehicle was found riddled with bullets. Gloria was pronounced dead at the scene, while Rafael later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on December 12.
Rafael Cardona was the brother-in-law of Hermes Pacheco, the newly elected mayor of Angamacutiro, who took office after his predecessor was abducted earlier this year.
The couple had traveled to Mexico on November 30 to celebrate the holidays with family. At the time of the shooting, they were reportedly near their home in Angamacutiro.
They have three children, including one adult daughter and two minors who were not present during the incident. The children are now staying with relatives in the area.
Authorities have not yet identified a motive for the attack, but evidence from the scene is being collected to aid in the investigation. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico has acknowledged the deaths and is working to gather more information.
Michoacán has experienced significant gang violence over the years, and this incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in the region. Rafael was born in the United States, while Gloria became a U.S. citizen after being born in Mexico.
A memorial service for the couple is scheduled in Angamacutiro on December 14.
