At least seven people were killed in Guatemala City after unidentified gunmen stormed a funeral home and opened fire during a wake, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. According to reports, the incident has been linked to a gang-related dispute, raising fresh concerns over rising violence in the region.
Victor Gomez, spokesperson for the local fire department, said that the attack occurred during a wake being held for a person who was killed on Monday in another part of the capital. “While the wake was taking place, rival gang members from Mara Salvatrucha stormed the funeral home and opened fire on the family and companions of the deceased,” Gomez stated.
Bodies Recovered Near Scene, Authorities Suspect Gang Retaliation
Forensic teams arrived shortly after the assault and recovered the bodies from the crime scene. Additional injured victims were also found just meters away, suggesting the attackers continued firing as mourners tried to flee. The area has since been cordoned off as investigators examine the motive and trace the assailants.
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Officials have attributed the incident to gang retaliation, a common occurrence in parts of Guatemala plagued by violent turf wars involving criminal groups like Mara Salvatrucha.
