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Masagua Mayor Nelson Marroquín Killed During Christmas Parade in Guatemala

President Bernardo Arévalo ordered the interior minister to identify those responsible.

Overview

  • The shooting occurred Saturday night during a holiday parade in Aldea Obero, in the municipality of Masagua, Escuintla.
  • Marroquín, 38, was transported to the National Hospital of Escuintla, where he died from his gunshot wounds, and one bodyguard was injured.
  • The National Association of Municipalities and the departmental firefighters confirmed the attack, and witnesses reported a close‑range assault by unknown assailants.
  • Arévalo directed Interior Minister Marco Antonio Villeda to lead the investigation, and authorities have not reported any arrests or identified suspects.
  • The assassination comes during a deteriorating security climate that includes a February mayoral killing, an 18% year‑over‑year rise in homicides through August, and an October prison escape of 20 gang members.