US embassy warns of mass shooting threat in Honduras capital

On May 6, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Honduras issued a serious security alert regarding a potential mass shooting threat in the capital city, Tegucigalpa. This alert followed credible information received about a possible attack planned for the same day and another threat reportedly made for May 16. The embassy identified three specific locations that could be targeted: the Elliot Dover Christian School, the Centro Cívico, and an unnamed shopping mall, all situated within the capital. While the embassy noted that there was no indication that U.S. citizens were specifically targeted, there was a request for avoidance of these locations due to safety concerns. Following the notification from the U.S. Embassy, the Honduran government recognized the gravity of the threat. Enrique Reina, Honduras' Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the information was relayed through appropriate diplomatic and security channels. The government treated the threat with utmost seriousness, sharing the alert with the Secretariat of Security and the Armed Forces. Reina expressed concerns that these threats could be tactics employed by criminal and political groups aimed at inciting fear and instability, particularly during an election year. Authorities pledged to carry out necessary investigations to bring any responsible parties to justice. The alert from the U.S. Embassy reflects ongoing concerns about security in Honduras, particularly regarding violent crime and gang activity that poses a risk to both local residents and foreign citizens residing or traveling in the country. The State Department has advised Americans to reconsider travel to Honduras due to high levels of violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, and kidnapping, common in many parts of the country. Local authorities may often lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to incidents of serious crime. Overall, the issuance of the security alert underlines the heightened risks and challenges the country faces in terms of public safety amidst ongoing political and social turmoil, exacerbated by the intertwined influences of organized crime and political instability. Honduran authorities have been urged to enhance security measures and maintain communication with international partners to ensure the safety of all individuals within their borders.