Deadly Jalisco Attack: Businessman Alberto Prieto Killed in 200-Shot Ambush

A deadly armed attack shook the border of Guadalajara and Zapopan Monday morning, leaving three people dead, including businessman Alberto Prieto Valencia, his 16-year-old daughter, and one of his bodyguards. The shocking ambush, which involved more than 30 attackers armed with long guns and at least seven vehicles, also injured four other bodyguards, one critically.

The Attack: 200 Shots and Tactical Ambush

The assault took place in the Santa Eduwiges neighborhood along Topacio Avenue, a busy residential corridor near the Guadalajara wholesale market. Authorities recovered over 200 spent shell casings, signaling the extreme violence of the event. Jalisco officials confirmed that Prieto was traveling with a security team of seven men, all former military personnel, who repelled the attack for approximately 15 minutes, despite being outnumbered by the assailants.

Officials highlighted that the attackers used roadblock tactics and vehicles with cloned license plates from Michoacán, further delaying police response and suggesting a high level of planning.

Victims and Security Response

In addition to Prieto and his daughter, one bodyguard was fatally shot, while the remaining four sustained injuries, including one who remains hospitalized but is showing signs of recovery. Authorities are using the injured bodyguard’s testimony to track down the perpetrators.

The neighborhood sustained significant collateral damage, with at least 10 homes and multiple vehicles struck by bullets. One house alone bore over 50 bullet holes in its facade.

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Investigation Focus: Organized Crime and Business Motive

While initial reports suggested possible links to “Colombian raffles,” Jalisco officials have shifted the focus to Prieto’s business operations in logistics and freight transport, a sector increasingly targeted for extortion. The Financial Intelligence Unit is now investigating whether the attack was retaliation for refusing extortion payments.

Authorities have yet to determine the exact motive, but given the number of attackers, military-style tactics, and use of long guns, the attack is presumed to be orchestrated by organized crime groups.

Community Impact and Ongoing Security Measures

The shooting occurred near a bustling wholesale market, prompting authorities to establish permanent security posts manned by the Guadalajara Police and patrolled by the National Guard. Vendors and residents in Santa Eduwiges and Residencial Victoria remain fearful, as the violent ambush highlights the growing reach of criminal networks in urban areas.

Jalisco state officials have convened emergency meetings of the State Security Council, coordinating investigations across local, state, and federal agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible.

Conclusion: Business Sector on High Alert

The assassination of Alberto Prieto underscores the growing dangers facing business owners in Jalisco, particularly those in logistics and commerce sectors vulnerable to criminal extortion. Authorities continue forensic investigations, tracing the vehicles and weapons used in the attack, as well as interviewing witnesses to bring the perpetrators to justice.

FAQ

Who was Alberto Prieto?

Alberto Prieto Valencia was a Mexican businessman and owner of a logistics and freight transport company based in Jalisco.

How did Alberto Prieto die?

He was killed in a planned ambush involving over 30 attackers armed with long guns in Guadalajara-Zapopan.

Were other people killed in the attack?

Yes, his 16-year-old daughter and one bodyguard also died. Four additional bodyguards were injured, one critically.

Where did the attack occur?

The ambush happened on Topacio Avenue in Santa Eduwiges, at the border of Guadalajara and Zapopan.

Was the attack linked to organized crime?

Authorities presume the attack was orchestrated by organized crime due to the tactics, number of assailants, and use of cloned license plates.

What is the motive behind the ambush?

Investigators are exploring potential motives, including extortion retaliation against Prieto’s logistics business.

How did Prieto’s bodyguards respond?

The seven-member security detail, all former military personnel, repelled the attackers for about 15 minutes despite being heavily outnumbered.

What has been done for community safety?

Authorities have established permanent security posts near the market and increased patrols to protect residents and vendors.