A recent road conflict in Puebla’s busy Zavaleta area has sparked concern among public transport users and drivers alike. On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, a man reportedly threw a stone at a RUTA feeder bus, specifically the A8 unit, after an altercation with its driver.

The incident unfolded just meters ahead of the Recta a Cholula, a major artery in the metropolitan area. Social media footage shows the aggressor driving a red Volkswagen Vento, who exited his vehicle to hurl the stone at the bus, damaging it and endangering passengers and the operator.

While authorities have not confirmed any links to organized crime, online users quickly connected the aggressive behavior to “montachoques” — groups known for orchestrating staged accidents to extort money from drivers. Puebla has seen a rise in such reports over recent years, with hotspots including the Periférico Ecológico, Vía Atlixcáyotl, and the Mexico-Puebla highway.

Between 2025 and 2026, multiple videos surfaced showing drivers documenting suspicious maneuvers like sudden stops and forced traffic jams in areas such as Ciudad Judicial and Parque Industrial 2000, consistent with montachoques tactics.

How do montachoques operate?
– They provoke or fake collisions to demand immediate cash payments.
– Typically work in groups using multiple vehicles.
– Intimidate victims to prevent police or insurance involvement.

Authorities advise:
– Stay inside your vehicle if you feel threatened.
– Call 911 and your insurance company immediately.
– Record license plates and vehicle details.
– Avoid handing over cash on the spot.

Despite the incident’s visibility online, neither RUTA nor local officials have confirmed if a formal complaint will be filed regarding the damage to the feeder bus. Meanwhile, users continue to demand identification of the red Vento driver and clarification on whether this was a simple road rage episode or part of a larger pattern of extortion.

This episode highlights the challenges Puebla faces in ensuring safe, reliable public transportation — a vital service that, when supported and protected, can offer an inclusive and efficient alternative to private vehicles. The ongoing development of systems like the cablebús teleférico in Puebla promises to expand mobility options, reduce traffic conflicts, and foster safer urban transit environments for all residents.