Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez, the mayor of Uruapan in Mexico’s violent Michoacan state, was shot dead on Saturday evening in the town’s historic center during Dia de Muertos celebrations.

A city councillor and a bodyguard were also injured, while the assailant was killed at the scene.

The gun used in the attack has been linked to clashes between rival criminal groups, though authorities are investigating all possible motives.

Manzo Rodríguez had publicly accused state officials of corruption and appealed for help against cartels, and had been under protection since December 2024, The Independent has reported.

His death sparked a large funeral procession, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by local politicians in Michoacan, which has seen several recent killings of mayors and journalists.