Coordinated early-morning attacks on a casino and nearby gas station underscore escalating risks for commercial venues in Sinaloa’s capital
The Flamingos casino in Culiacán, Sinaloa, was hit by gunfire in the early hours of January 6, marking the second violent attack on the property in less than three weeks and intensifying concerns over public safety and business security in the region. A nearby gas station was also struck during what authorities believe may have been a coordinated series of incidents, prompting a swift response from state and federal security forces.
According to local media reports, the two attacks occurred within minutes of each other. The gas station, located at the intersection of Boulevard Fray Marcos de Niza and Boulevard Emiliano Zapata in the San Rafael neighborhood, sustained multiple gunfire impacts to its bathroom area and office facilities. Following the incident, personnel from the Mexican Navy secured the surrounding area, recovered spent rifle casings, and temporarily closed traffic along the affected boulevard to allow investigators to work safely.
Shortly thereafter, municipal police were dispatched to the Flamingos casino, where officers discovered extensive rifle damage across the building’s windows and main façade. At the scene, authorities also located a gray, late-model vehicle showing visible signs of gunfire damage, suggesting it may have been involved in or affected by the attack. The casino perimeter was immediately cordoned off, and the Sinaloa State Attorney General’s Office launched a formal investigation.
Specialized teams from the General Directorate of Expert Services processed both locations, collecting ballistic evidence, photographing damage, and compiling forensic records to support the ongoing inquiry. Officials confirmed that, despite the severity of the attacks, no injuries or fatalities were reported at either site.
The latest incident follows a previous attack on the Flamingos casino on December 22, 2025. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the venue has suspended operations or identified a motive behind the repeated targeting. Investigators have also not confirmed whether the two attacks are directly linked, though the timing and proximity have fueled speculation of coordination.
Local outlets have reported the circulation of an alleged online “blacklist” referencing businesses purportedly connected to criminal groups. However, officials have cautioned that the list has not been authenticated, and no formal link has been established between the affected establishments and organized criminal activity.
The attacks come amid heightened security tensions in Culiacán and reinforce growing industry concerns about risk exposure for gaming, hospitality, and retail businesses operating in regions affected by organized crime and armed violence.
