“Tulum in particular has become a center for drug consumption in the Riviera Maya. Ten gangs have carved up sales in the area, Mr. Montes de Oca said, and when they encroach on each other’s territory, what “begins as a minor crime, selling drugs, ends in tragedy.” New York Times, February 2022
In a piece about the shooting and culture, the Daily Beast writes how it’s not called ‘bribery’ at parties and events, it’s called ‘tips.’
This person was also at the fatal Vagalume Halloween shooting on Halloween evening 2020. One person died in their arms as others were writhing in the ground injured. The shooting left two dead and three injured, according to reports. The night started with an estimated 500 people dancing and partying on a beautiful Tulum night.
They recounted what it was like after the shooting.
“It was a while before I heard any sirens, maybe 10 minutes. There were like 20 rounds. It was horrible. But help didn’t come right away at all. And then when I got home that night as we slept someone broke into our place and stole lots of stuff. Thankfully that was all though.”
