Enigma Norteño Founder Ernesto Barajas Shot Dead Zapopan Jalisco

Ernesto Barajas, the 38-year-old founder and lead vocalist of the regional Mexican group Enigma Norteño, was fatally shot in Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, Mexico. Barajas and a companion were attacked by two assailants on a motorcycle at a car repair shop, with a third person injured; authorities have opened an investigation into the targeted killing. Enigma Norteño is known for its narcocorridos, songs that often glorify cartel members, and the band had previously received threats from the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel, leading to canceled performances. The murder has intensified concerns about violence linked to narcocorrido artists and prompted some Mexican states to ban music that glorifies crime. President Claudia Sheinbaum's government is responding by promoting music contests focused on non-violent content. The incident highlights ongoing dangers faced by musicians associated with the narcocorrido genre amid Mexico's broader cartel-related violence.