A planned family celebration in Mexico dissolved into tragedy, leaving a 14-year-old American boy fighting for his life and the family shattered.
At a Glance
- American teenager critically injured in Mexico, father and uncle killed.
- The attack occurred while the family was traveling in an SUV near Las Palmas, Durango.
- The U.S. Embassy confirmed the deaths and is assisting the family.
- Mexican authorities are investigating but no suspects identified yet.
Unseen Dangers in a Birthday Trip
The attack happened on December 27 in Durango, Mexico. Jason Peña, 14, was critically injured in a shooting as the family traveled in their SUV. The attack, described as a “massacre,” left three dead, including Jason’s father, Vicente Peña Jr., and his uncle Antonio Fernández Rodriguez from Chicago. The family had embarked on a trip to celebrate Jason’s birthday, unaware of the tragic events that awaited them.
Jason was discovered with gunshot wounds to the head alongside the damaged SUV on the Francisco Zarco highway. Mexican authorities have launched an investigation, yet no motive or suspects have been determined. The U.S. Embassy is providing assistance to the victims’ family during this difficult time.
American family shot on Mexico vacation in attack that left 3 dead, teen fighting for life: reports https://t.co/vSQhFoCFB2 pic.twitter.com/dwjcCKisut
— New York Post (@nypost) December 31, 2024
Medical Evacuation Efforts
After being stabilized, Jason Peña was flown to Houston for further medical treatment. His mother, Rosy Cabral, a nurse, accompanied him. Jason remains in a medically induced coma, and plans are underway to transfer him to Chicago for advanced care. The family is seeking funds to cover the immense medical and logistical challenges they now face.
“As you can only imagine, this is a nightmare for his mother. And right now, what we’re trying to do is provide that advocacy and security” – Julia Contreras
Organizations like United Giving Hope are providing assistance in coordinating Jason’s safe return to the U.S. Efforts are also underway to repatriate the bodies of Vicente and Antonio for their final journey home to Chicago.
3 dead, teen in coma after American family shot while on vacation in Mexico over the holidays https://t.co/na3zDJ0aX8
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) December 31, 2024
Rising Violence in Durango
The attack underscores the violent conditions in Durango, caused by conflicts between drug cartels and government forces. Such incidents call into question the safety of Americans traveling in certain regions of Mexico. The U.S. State Department’s Level 2 travel advisory for Mexico cautions travelers about potential violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and robberies, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance.
The Peña family’s nightmare is one among many, highlighting the real dangers that exist. Advocates are calling for heightened security measures and continued support for affected families. The loss they incurred is indescribable, and their journey to recovery will require resilience, support, and hope.
Sources:
- 3 dead, teen fighting for life after American family gunned down on Mexico vacation: ‘It was a massacre’
- Americans shot in Mexico: 3 dead, teen in coma after being found with gunshot wounds in Durango, circumstances still unknown – 6abc Philadelphia
