A gunfight between rival Mexican drug gangs left two men dead at a five-star Cancun resort and sent terrified tourists scrambling for safety, according to police and reports.
The gunfire at the Hyatt Ziva Riviera in the popular Mexican resort came as tourists were lounging on the beach and swimming pools when the shots sent them into a panicked flight.
The Mexican newspaper Milenio reported that one group of narcotraffickers pulled up to the beach in Puerto Morelos by boat and opened fire on their rivals with semi-automatic weapons.
At least one tourist was treated for a minor injury after receiving a blow to the head, according to the outlet.
Quintana Roo security forces confirmed on Twitter that two were killed on the beach at the resort, identifying the victims as “two men who are presumed to be drug dealers.”
“There are no seriously injured or kidnapped tourists,” the department said.
The US embassy told Reuters that the consulate in Yucatan was trying to confirm details.
A receptionist at the hotel told the news service that “nothing unusual was taking place” despite the widespread confusion.
But NBC executive Mike Sington, who was at the resort, described the panic at the scene on Twitter, saying that guests huddled for safety and were confined to the lobby.
“Active shooter at Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Resort,” Sington tweeted. “Several guests have now told they saw gunmen come up from the beach, actively shooting.”
“In hiding in the dark now,” Sington wrote. “Was told active shooter on property. Paramedics are here.”
With Ny Post