Violence in the Sinaloa capital has once again reached the regional artistic community. On the afternoon of Wednesday, February 25, Julio César Beltrán, accordionist and member of the group Grupo Arraigado, was the victim of a direct armed attack while traveling on one of the city’s most emblematic avenues.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m. on Paseo Niños Héroes Boulevard, popularly known as the Malecón Viejo. Beltrán was driving a black Chevrolet pickup truck when he was intercepted by hitmen who shot him repeatedly, killing him.
Despite the rapid response of Red Cross paramedics, the musician died instantly at the scene due to the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained. The vehicle sustained severe damage, and the area, known for its heavy traffic, was cordoned off by security personnel to allow the Forensic Medical Service (SEMEFO) to conduct its investigation.
On Thursday morning, Grupo Arraigado used its official channels to confirm the death and pay a final tribute to their bandmate. With the message, “Your mark remains forever in our community,” the Sinaloa-based group expressed their sorrow and bid farewell to the young accordionist.
The band, originally from Culiacán, has established itself in the modern sierreño genre and is recognized for its corridos. Some of its lyrics directly allude to factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, specifically “La Mayiza,” which has generated various interpretations regarding the possible motive for the crime.
