Suspected 'Atlixcáyotl Shooter' arrested in Puebla

Authorities in Puebla, Mexico, have apprehended Rafael "N.", the individual suspected of being the "Tirador de la Atlixcáyotl" (Atlixcáyotl Shooter). The arrest took place during a police raid in the Santa Fe residential area of San Andrés Cholula, a municipality situated along the Vía Atlixcáyotl.

The operation, which involved state, federal, and military forces, occurred in the early hours of the morning. For months, the "Tirador de la Atlixcáyotl" had instilled fear in the Puebla metropolitan area, with authorities attributing at least twelve vehicle shootings to the suspect. The attacks primarily occurred on the Periférico Ecológico, Vía Atlixcáyotl, and Camino Real a Cholula, with recent incidents concentrating on the Vía Atlixcáyotl.

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A matter that concerns all of us who live in the city of Puebla, it is an event that cannot be isolated, it is not enough to open an investigation file, it is not enough for it to be resolved.

The prolonged period of violence and the official response drew criticism. University investigator Valente Tallabs González had previously warned that the authorities' communication and operational shortcomings increased the risk of further incidents. He emphasized the need for authorities to actively demonstrate public protection, as residents felt vulnerable at any time of day.

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The authority must demonstrate that it is actively protecting the population, because we all feel vulnerable at any time of day.