A veteran-led rescue organization has initiated a large-scale operation to evacuate stranded Americans from Mexico following a surge in violence triggered by the death of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel’s leader. The operation, described by founder Bryan Stern of Grey Bull Rescue, is akin to a “war-zone level” mission, reflecting the heightened risks in the region. Reports indicate that chaos has erupted across Jalisco and other Mexican states since the military operation that killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as El Mencho, on October 15, 2023.
As flights resumed from Jalisco on October 16, 2023, Stern cautioned Americans to remain indoors until safe travel conditions are assured. He emphasized, “If you’re in a location that is relatively safe, stay where you shelter in place and hunker down. It may be uncomfortable — but uncomfortable and safe is better than comfortable and dead.”
Escalating Violence and Evacuation Efforts
Following the death of El Mencho, the Jalisco cartel has unleashed a wave of retaliatory violence, resulting in over 70 fatalities on October 16, including 25 members of the National Guard. Many Americans have sought refuge in Puerto Vallarta and other resort areas as the violence escalates. Grey Bull Rescue has conducted over 800 missions since its inception in 2021, successfully evacuating more than 8,000 Americans and allies from active combat zones.
Stern characterized the current situation in Mexico as reminiscent of warfare, given the cartel’s extensive resources, which he noted could rival that of a small military. He stated, “What’s interesting about this war is that the enemy, the bad guys — these are not punk kids with face tattoos. The cartels are extremely organized, very well-resourced and very prepared.”
Flight Cancellations and Military Response
In response to the escalating violence, major airlines from the United States and Canada, including Air Canada and Air Alaska, suspended flights to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. As security forces work to stabilize the region, more than 250 roadblocks established by the cartel across 20 states have been cleared by Mexican military personnel. An additional 2,500 soldiers have been deployed to western Mexico to combat the cartel’s influence.
The United States embassy has advised American citizens in Jalisco, Baja California, and Nayarit to maintain a shelter-in-place protocol as the situation unfolds. This coordinated effort aims to ensure the safety of those affected by the violence and facilitate a secure environment for the evacuation of stranded individuals. As the situation develops, Grey Bull Rescue remains on standby, ready to assist those in need.
