At least two suspected gang members were killed after gunfire erupted at the Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Resort in Mexico, local offiicals confirmed. Guests and employees were rushed into hiding by staff amid reports of a shootout.
The shooting was reported at the 5-star hotel on Thursday afternoon, with witnesses saying that a gunman approached from the adjacent beach and began shooting.
Reuters, citing officials in Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo, reported a firefight between rival gangs had broken out in the area, and that two alleged gang members were killed. The State Secretariat of Public Security in the state also said the two killed are “presumed to be drug dealers,” but added that no tourists were seriously injured or kidnapped.
NBCUniversal executive Mike Sington was at the hotel and described being shepherded to “a dark room deep in the hotel” to hide.
Other terrified guests described a single gunman approaching the secluded resort from the beach and opening fire amid a volleyball game.
All guests and employees told to duck, and we’re all taken to hiding places at Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Resort. Active shooter? Terrorist or kidnapping threat? They’re not telling us anything. pic.twitter.com/Hf7SRzRJIZ
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) November 4, 2021
All guests and employees taken out of hiding now and brought to lobby. Active shooter at Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Resort. Still no update from hotel. People are hugging each other and crying. pic.twitter.com/AqbYms3AUb
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) November 4, 2021
Within an hour, guests were allowed back up to the hotel’s reception.
Local officials said police were investigating after being called to an incident “in the vicinity of a hotel, located in the municipality of Puerto Morelos”.
Mexican media reports state that paramedics have arrived on the scene, but no information on injuries has emerged. The US Embassy in Mexico said it was looking into reports of shots fired at the resort.
DETAILS TO FOLLOW