Phoenix Woman Vows to Stay in Mazatlan Despite Cartel Violence

Christi Gibson plans to remain in Mexico despite recent unrest following the death of a top drug lord.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Christi Gibson, a Phoenix resident, was relaxing at a timeshare resort in Mazatlán, Mexico, on Sunday, February 22nd, when she read news about recent civil unrest in some Mexican states. This unrest erupted after the killing of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera, Mexico's top drug lord, by the Mexican military. Despite the violence, Gibson says she plans to remain in Mazatlán.

Why it matters

The death of a major cartel leader often leads to power struggles and violence between rival criminal organizations, putting civilians at risk. Mazatlán is a popular tourist destination for Americans, so Gibson's decision to stay highlights the complex security challenges facing visitors to parts of Mexico.

The details

Gibson was at a timeshare resort pool in Mazatlán when she saw news reports about the civil unrest that had erupted in some Mexican states following the killing of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera, Mexico's top drug lord, by the Mexican military. Despite the violence, Gibson says she plans to remain in Mazatlán for the duration of her trip.

  • On February 22, 2026, Gibson was at a timeshare resort pool in Mazatlán when she saw news about the recent unrest.

The players

Christi Gibson

A resident of Phoenix, Arizona, who is currently vacationing in Mazatlán, Mexico.

Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera

Mexico's top drug lord who was killed by the Mexican military, leading to civil unrest in some states.

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The takeaway

Gibson's decision to remain in Mazatlán despite the recent cartel-related violence highlights the difficult security situation facing tourists in parts of Mexico, even in popular resort areas. Her choice underscores the complex calculus travelers must make when weighing safety concerns against the desire to continue with vacation plans.