Santa Barbara Sister Cities Leaders Sheltered in Mexico Amid Cartel Violence

Gil and Marti Garcia were in Puerto Vallarta for Sister Cities events when chaos erupted after a cartel leader's killing.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 4:19pm

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Two Santa Barbara residents and leaders of the sister cities committee, Gil and Marti Garcia, are sheltering in place in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico amid violent unrest following the killing of a major cartel leader. The Garcias were in Puerto Vallarta, Santa Barbara's sister city, coordinating annual Sister Cities International events and fundraising activities when the violence broke out.

Why it matters

The sister city relationship between Santa Barbara and Puerto Vallarta has existed for decades, with the two communities regularly exchanging cultural events, youth programs, and civic initiatives. The Garcias have been central figures in maintaining this partnership, and their current sheltering situation highlights the potential risks and challenges that can arise when traveling abroad, even for long-standing community programs.

The details

After the killing of cartel leader 'El Mencho' on Sunday, February 22, Puerto Vallarta officials ordered all residents and tourists to shelter in their homes or hotels. Airports have also cancelled flights home as violent activities and fires are being set throughout the area. The Garcias were in Puerto Vallarta working with Sister Cities members to coordinate annual events, fundraising activities, and community projects.

  • On Sunday, February 22, the cartel leader 'El Mencho' was killed in Puerto Vallarta.
  • Following the killing, Puerto Vallarta officials ordered all residents and tourists to shelter in place.

The players

Gil and Marti Garcia

Long-time coordinators of the City of Santa Barbara/Puerto Vallarta Sister Cities Committee, who have both served as Presidents and coordinate annual Sister Cities International events and visits.

El Mencho

A major cartel leader whose killing sparked the violent unrest in Puerto Vallarta.

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What’s next

The Garcias' status and ability to safely return to Santa Barbara remain uncertain as the situation in Puerto Vallarta continues to unfold.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of careful planning and risk assessment when engaging in international community partnerships, even in long-standing sister city relationships. It also highlights the potential volatility of certain regions and the need for contingency plans to ensure the safety of travelers.