Durango, Mexico, was the site of a horrific Christmas tragedy for an American family. Fourteen-year-old Jason Peña, from Chicago, was shot in the head and his father, uncle, and another relative were killed in the municipality of Santiago Papasquiaro. The family was visiting Durango to celebrate Jason’s birthday with his grandfather. This incident raises concerns about safety and travel advisories in Durango, Mexico.
A Birthday Trip Turns Tragic
The Peña family embarked on a road trip from Illinois to Durango, Mexico, to celebrate Jason Peña’s 14th birthday. On December 27th, their celebration took a devastating turn. While driving a black pickup truck with U.S. license plates, the family was attacked, and their vehicle riddled with bullets. Jason’s father, Vicente Peña Jr., his uncle Eduardo, and relative Antonio were killed. Jason survived the attack but sustained a severe gunshot wound to the head.
Investigation and Repatriation Efforts
The Durango Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the incident, collaborating with U.S. authorities. While no motive has been confirmed, robbery is suspected. Jason Peña remains in delicate health and has been transferred to a Texas hospital. Family spokesperson and Chicago lawyer Julie Contreras has pleaded for prayers and highlighted the challenges of repatriating Jason given the tragic loss of his father and uncle.
Safety Concerns in Durango, Mexico
This tragedy underscores existing safety concerns for travelers in Durango. The U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for Durango due to criminal activity. U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling in the area where the attack occurred, south and west of Federal Highway 45. The Peña family’s tragic experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers in this region.
A Growing List of Violent Incidents Against Americans in Mexico
The attack on the Peña family adds to a growing list of violent crimes against U.S. citizens in Mexico. Recent incidents include the murder of a U.S. botanist in Sonora and the triple homicide of two Australian surfers and an American in Baja California. These incidents, along with the 2023 kidnapping of four Americans in Tamaulipas, continue to raise concerns about safety and travel in Mexico.
