Florida Couple Stranded in Mexico After Cartel Leader's Death

Wendee Parks and her husband were caught in the violence near their Puerto Vallarta resort.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Central Florida couple remains stranded in Mexico after violence broke out near their resort over the weekend, following the death of a powerful cartel leader. Wendee Parks and her husband traveled from their home in Viera to Puerto Vallarta for a family destination wedding, but the celebration quickly turned frightening when they woke up to smoke, reports of violence, and instructions to remain inside their resort.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges and risks that American tourists can face when traveling to certain parts of Mexico, especially in the aftermath of high-profile cartel-related events. The U.S. State Department has issued alerts urging Americans to limit travel and stay alert in the region.

The details

Parks said the couple saw signs of a major security response in the area, including Black Hawk helicopters and military ships. Their plans to return home to Orlando on Sunday fell apart amid the unrest, with the couple describing feeling "a little scared, panicked" as they heard gunfire outside the airport and were told to take shelter. The couple is now booked on a flight home later Tuesday night, as others also try to leave the area.

  • On Sunday, the couple woke up to smoke, reports of violence, and instructions to remain inside their resort.
  • Late Sunday night, the U.S. Department of State issued a security alert after the killing of one of Mexico's most powerful cartel leaders.
  • The couple is now booked on a flight home later Tuesday night.

The players

Wendee Parks

A Central Florida resident who traveled with her husband to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for a family destination wedding.

U.S. Department of State

The federal agency that issued a security alert urging Americans in Puerto Vallarta and other areas to shelter in place, limit movement, and keep family and friends updated on their safety.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We were a little scared, panicked, I'm not going to lie. It was like, 'wow, is it moving closer?' It was hard to tell. There was a charred bus less than a mile from here.”

— Wendee Parks (wbal.com)

“It was a little scary because there was gunfire outside the airport, and people were being told to go into the kitchen and get down.”

— Wendee Parks (wbal.com)

What’s next

The State Department says the security situation remains fluid in parts of Mexico and continues to urge Americans to limit travel, stay alert, and follow guidance from local authorities.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks and instability that American tourists can face when traveling to certain regions of Mexico, even for events like destination weddings. It underscores the importance of closely monitoring travel advisories and being prepared to alter plans if the security situation deteriorates.