Mayor of Taxco, Guerrero, Mario Figueroa, Survives Grenade Attack

By "El Huaso" for Borderland Beat

This afternoon, armed assailants clashed with the convoy of Mario Figueroa Mundo, the mayor of the city of Taxco, Guerrero, a "pueblo magico" recently plunged into violence because of disputes between organized crime groups.

Mayor Mario Figueroa was being driven from a graduation event in Taxco back to his home when attackers on motorcycles engaged his convoy. The two attackers threw hand grenades and fired shots, which damaged the front of the mayor's armored Chevy Suburban. 

The cause of the attack is unclear. Early reports claimed that the attackers intended to kill the mayor. However, a statement released by the Secretariat of Public Security claimed that the assailants were fleeing another crime scene when they happened upon the mayors convoy. Gunfire was exchanged, the assailants threw grenades, leaving casualties of one killed assailant, and one injured bodyguard. The mayor was unharmed, but was still taken to a local hospital.

The remaining attacker was captured and is being treated for his injuries.

Famous for its tile-roofed buildings, ornate churches, and silver artwork, Taxco has been a safe and treasured locale for decades. However, the violence that plagues much of Mexico has encroached on the city in recent years.

According to Animal Politico, the violence is the result of a turf war between a criminal group called “La Federación” and La Familia Michoacána, who have a long history in the region. The violence has caused local businesses and transportation workers to close their services in protest.

Just last week, in response to a major strike of bus and taxi drivers, Mayor Mario Figueroa resisted discussion of violence in Taxco, saying that the government is providing "excellent security" to its inhabitants.

Sources: @hidalgonewsmx Twitter, Periodico Correo, SSP Guerrero Twitter, Tiempo de Guerrero Twitter, Animal Politico, Yahoo Noticias, Dominio Publico