Deadly Shooting Near Acapulco School Leaves Two Dead, Students Injured
Acapulco, Guerrero – A shooting near the Colegio de Bachilleres (Cobach) number 2 in the Chinameca neighborhood of Acapulco, Guerrero, on Thursday, February 19, 2026, left two people dead and at least two students injured. The incident, which occurred around 7:00 AM local time, has prompted a security response and the suspension of classes at both the Cobach school and a nearby secondary school. The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges facing the city of Acapulco and the state of Guerrero, where violence related to organized crime continues to impact daily life.
According to initial reports, the shooting stemmed from a pursuit involving individuals on a motorcycle targeting another man. The gunfire erupted as the pursued individual attempted to seek refuge near the school, resulting in injuries to three people – the driver of a public transportation vehicle and two female students attending Cobach 2. Tragically, both the driver and one of the students succumbed to their injuries while receiving medical attention. The incident highlights the vulnerability of students and public transportation users to violence in certain areas of Acapulco.
Following the attack, teachers and parents quickly ushered the injured students inside the school building for safety before they were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The swift response by school staff and parents demonstrates the community’s concern for the well-being of its students amidst escalating violence. Authorities have launched an investigation into the shooting, with personnel from the Mexican Army, National Guard, State Police, Municipal Police, and the State Attorney General’s Office deployed to the area.
Details of the Shooting and Initial Investigation
The scene of the shooting was cordoned off until approximately 9:15 AM, nearly two hours after the incident occurred. Investigators recovered at least three spent shell casings, suggesting a possible weapon malfunction during the attack. The Guerrero government stated that the incident began as a pursuit in the Chinameca neighborhood, resulting in one man injured and two women wounded. Jornada reports that the injured included the driver of a feeder route public transportation vehicle and two students from Cobach 2.
Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooting and the identities of the perpetrators. While the initial reports suggest the attack was related to a personal dispute or targeted pursuit, the broader context of organized crime activity in Acapulco raises concerns about the potential for spillover violence affecting civilians. The Colegio de Bachilleres is an institution overseen by the Guerrero state government, offering secondary education across the state. The state government website provides contact information for citizen inquiries.
Impact on Education and Community Response
The suspension of classes at Cobach 2 and the nearby secondary school reflects the immediate impact of the shooting on the local education system. School officials prioritized the safety of students and staff, opting to temporarily close the campuses to allow for a thorough assessment of the situation and to provide a sense of security to the community. This disruption to education adds to the challenges faced by students in Acapulco, where violence and insecurity can significantly impact learning opportunities.
The incident has also sparked outrage and concern among parents and community members, who are demanding increased security measures to protect students and residents. Local organizations and advocacy groups are calling for greater investment in crime prevention programs and improved law enforcement strategies to address the root causes of violence in Acapulco. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the urgent necessitate for comprehensive solutions to address the ongoing security crisis in the region.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the shooting. The Fiscalía General del Estado is leading the investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
This incident occurs within a broader context of violence in Guerrero state. Acapulco, once a premier tourist destination, has experienced a surge in criminal activity in recent years, impacting both residents and the tourism industry. The presence of various criminal groups vying for control of territory and illicit activities contributes to the high levels of violence in the city. The state government has implemented various security initiatives, but challenges remain in effectively addressing the complex security landscape.
The attack on February 19th underscores the vulnerability of educational institutions and public spaces to violence in Acapulco. It also highlights the need for a coordinated and sustained effort to address the underlying causes of crime and insecurity in the region. The safety and well-being of students and residents must be a top priority for authorities as they work to restore peace and stability to the city.
As of this reporting, authorities have not released the names of the victims. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. The next official update from the Fiscalía General del Estado is expected within 48 hours, providing details on the progress of the investigation.
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