Six killed in armed clash in Guatemala's El Progreso province

An armed confrontation in Sanarate, El Progreso, Guatemala, resulted in the deaths of six individuals on Monday, June 29. Municipal Departmental Firefighters reported the incident, and the National Civil Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The preliminary information indicates that among the deceased were three merchants and two men identified as suspected hitmen. Authorities are still working to confirm the official version of events. A bystander walking in the area was also struck by a stray bullet and died at the scene. Initial reports suggest the merchants may have retaliated against the alleged attackers, leading to the deadly shootout.

Investigators are exploring extortion as a potential motive, though this has not been officially confirmed. Some of the victims were found inside a residence in the Las Margaritas neighborhood, where police have secured the scene. PNC investigators and prosecutors from the Public Ministry are gathering evidence and testimonies to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine the cause of the massacre.

The Guatemala Departmental Firefighters Association (ASONBOMD) confirmed the emergency response, reporting five fatalities and one injured person at the scene. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities expected to release further official information soon.