Guatemala Funeral Attack Leaves Seven Dead Amid Gang Violence

Guatemala Funeral Attack Leaves Seven Dead

At least seven people were killed and 13 wounded in an armed attack at a funeral in Guatemala City on Tuesday. The incident is believed to be linked to gang-related disputes.

Gang Rivalry Suspected

Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez blamed the violent rivalry between the Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gangs as the likely cause. Armed men stormed a funeral home during the wake of a Barrio 18 member killed on Monday.

Details of the Attack

While the wake was taking place, "rival gang members from Mara Salvatrucha stormed the funeral home and fired at the family and friends" of the deceased, Jimenez stated. Municipal spokesperson Amilcar Montejo confirmed that the gunmen opened fire inside the funeral home.

Police Investigation

Authorities are investigating why police officers assigned to monitor the event had abandoned their posts before the attack. Jimenez called the situation "unacceptable" and said the officers would be investigated.

Background of Gang Violence

Guatemala is plagued by gang violence, with the Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha gangs battling for territorial control and engaging in extortion. The country's homicide rate remains high, though it has decreased in recent years. The Mara Salvatrucha gang was formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants.