Puebla, Mexico— An armed attack on a transport convoy escort at 6:30 a.m. on October 30, 2026 on the Mexico-Puebla highway killed two private security guards and left two drivers injured near the San Martín Texmelucan toll plaza.
The convoy was moving automotive parts from Puebla to Mexico City, escorted by two armored pickup trucks. Witnesses said at least two vehicles blocked the highway ahead of the convoy, forcing it to slow. Gunmen in tactical gear opened fire from both sides with rifles.
The escort guards returned fire but were outgunned. One escort truck was set ablaze. The cargo trucks were not looted, suggesting the attack was aimed at the guards, not the freight, or was interrupted by a passing National Guard patrol.
“These were not common robbers. They came to kill,” said a driver who hid under his cab. “They shouted to stop the escort, then shot without warning.”
El Universal reported the route is contested by groups linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and local fuel theft gangs. Convoy escorts have become standard for high-value loads after a spike in highway robberies. Attacks on the escorts themselves have increased this year.
The Puebla State Prosecutor confirmed two dead, both employees of a private security firm. The injured drivers were taken to ISSSTE Hospital in Puebla. No suspects have been detained. Shell casings from at least three calibers were found on the road.
“We have deployed army and National Guard units along the corridor and set up checkpoints,” said Puebla Public Security Secretary Daniel Cruz. “We believe this was an organized crime group testing escort response times.”
Transport chambers said convoy attacks have risen 40 percent since June, with escorts often targeted first to isolate cargo. The federal government said it will review escort licensing and armament rules.
Tonight the highway is open with patrols every 10 kilometers. The burned escort vehicle remains at the scene for forensic examination. Investigators are reviewing dashcam footage and toll plaza cameras.
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