There is little doubt the victims were targeted, but the question remains: Why? Was the issue drug trafficking—or could it have been water?

Most of the hordes that descend on the Yucatan throughout the year are unaware of a spectacular island just off the coast that only allows certain visitors every day.

“It couldn’t have been a mistake,” said a prominent member of the LeBaron family. “This is terrorism, plain and simple.”

Mexican-American families heading to a Mormon wedding in Mexico were attacked, and an SUV went up in flames, with its passengers burning to death.

Researching his latest book, the acclaimed travel writer and novelist drove the entire US-Mexico border and then did a deep dive into Mexico itself. And there he fell in love.

The old guard is threatened, a new force is ascendant, and citizens increasingly are caught up in the violence.

The raid, which was carried out on a U.S. extradition order, led to the escape of more than 50 prisoners, the death of 8 people, and the release of El Chapo’s son.