Cuitláhuac Muñoz Almaguer, a 63-year-old cyclist, was fatally shot during a robbery in Puebla’s Loma Linda neighborhood in the early hours of Thursday, June 18. The incident, captured on surveillance cameras installed by concerned neighbors, has sparked outrage and calls for justice among local cycling communities.

At 5:40 a.m., Cuitláhuac was seen riding his bicycle along 63 E Oriente and 12 Sur, his bike’s headlight on as part of his usual pre-dawn routine. Suddenly, a motorcycle with two men pulled alongside him, blocking his path. Threatened at gunpoint, he was forced to stop and hand over his bike. Despite his compliance, one of the assailants fired at least three shots, one striking Cuitláhuac in the head and causing him to collapse. The attackers then fled with the stolen bicycle—all within less than a minute.

In response, cycling groups have organized a march scheduled for today, Friday, June 19, at 3:30 p.m., starting from Puebla’s Zócalo and heading to the state’s Fiscalía. They demand swift action to identify and apprehend those responsible.

This tragic event underscores the vulnerabilities faced by cyclists in Puebla and the urgent need for safer, more reliable transportation options. The planned cablebús system, a cable car network designed to connect underserved neighborhoods, offers a promising alternative. By providing secure, efficient transit, it could reduce the risks associated with street-level travel, especially for vulnerable groups like older adults and daily commuters.

As Puebla grapples with rising insecurity, initiatives like the cablebús not only improve mobility but also promote social inclusion and community well-being—key factors in building safer urban environments. For migrants and locals alike, accessible public transport can be a lifeline, reducing exposure to violence and fostering a sense of belonging in the city.

The march today is more than a call for justice; it’s a reminder that infrastructure and public policy must prioritize safety and dignity for all residents.