A high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel, known as Jose “El Chabelo” Isabel, was killed in a police shootout following a violent incident at a local cockfight in the Mexican city of Manzanillo. Reports indicate that Isabel and an unidentified accomplice initiated a deadly attack at the event, resulting in two fatalities and several injuries.
The incident occurred in the Las Parotas neighborhood, where Isabel’s group reportedly stormed a covert cockfighting arena and opened fire on attendees. After the attack, the assailants fled the scene, leaving behind a scene of chaos and bloodshed.
In response, a unit of the Mexican national police pursued the gunmen, culminating in a fierce exchange of gunfire. Both Isabel and his accomplice were killed in the confrontation. Prior to this incident, Isabel, who was considered a “plaza boss” for the cartel in Manzanillo, was already sought by authorities on a separate homicide warrant.
The identities of the victims from the cockfighting incident have not been disclosed by prosecutors in Colima, the state where Manzanillo is located. However, Isabel was confirmed to be among the deceased.
Colima, a region smaller than the state of Delaware, has been grappling with a high rate of violent crime. According to national data, the state reported 623 homicides between January and October of this year alone. The murder rate in Colima is a staggering 105 per 100,000 residents, a figure that is five times higher than Mexico’s national average.
The death of Isabel marks another chapter in Mexico’s ongoing struggle with drug cartels, particularly the powerful Sinaloa Cartel. The incident underscores the violent tactics employed by these criminal organizations and the challenges faced by law enforcement in their efforts to maintain public safety.