Violent Clash in Central Mexico Leaves Two Dead, Including the Alleged Leader of La Familia Michoacana Cartel

A clash between two groups of armed civilians left two people dead, including Luis Pineda, alias "El Wicho," an alleged leader of the La Familia Michoacana criminal organization.

The attack occurred near the upscale Burgos neighborhood. According to Mexican media reports, residents were alarmed after hearing a series of gunshots.

When authorities arrived at the scene, law enforcement officers and first responders found two vehicles riddled with bullet holes. They located four men nearby— two were pronounced dead at the scene, while the other two were seriously injured and transported to a nearby hospital.

According to Proceso, police sources confirmed that one of the deceased was El Wicho, who was identified as a regional leader of La Familia Michoacana. He was reportedly linked to crimes including extortion, kidnapping, and possession of firearms restricted for military use.

Witnesses told authorities that the attackers fled in a white sedan heading toward the Mexico-Acapulco highway. Despite a search operation in the area, no arrests have been reported.

The Morelos Attorney General's Office confirmed Pineda's identity and said an investigation has been opened for intentional homicide. Forensic experts collected evidence at the scene, and the bodies were transported by the Forensic Medical Service (Semefo).

Prior to his death, El Wicho had been identified by authorities as a high-ranking member of La Familia Michoacana and was believed to be responsible for multiple crimes in Morelos.

La Familia Michoacana was formed in the early 2000s as a self-styled vigilante group with the goal of expelling Los Zetas from Michoacán. Over the past two decades, the organization has fractured into several rival splinter groups vying for territorial control across central Mexico.

At its peak, La Familia Michoacana operated as a de facto authority in parts of western Michoacán, according to InSight Crime. The group garnered significant public support by settling local disputes, providing employment, and engaging in community outreach.

Although its power has faded in recent years, La Familia Michoacana remains active in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion in parts of Guerrero, Morelos, Michoacán, and the State of Mexico.