On Sunday, May 31, 2026, Raúl Zapotitla, a 29-year-old Traffic Proximity Agent from Puebla’s Secretariat of Mobility and Transport (SMT), tragically died in a car accident on Vía Atlixcáyotl. Ironically, Raúl’s job was to enforce speed limits and monitor vehicles with out-of-state plates, yet he was driving a Volkswagen Vento with Guerrero plates at excessive speed when the crash occurred.

The accident was reported around 10:08 a.m. by motorists who saw a white car overturned on the median of Atlixcáyotl. Emergency responders, including paramedics, Proximity Vial officers, State Highway Police, and rescue personnel, arrived promptly. They found Raúl trapped inside the severely damaged vehicle. Despite efforts, paramedics confirmed he had no vital signs upon arrival. His passengers were injured but survived.

Initial reports suggest Raúl lost control of the car while trying to avoid another vehicle, causing the rollover. Official investigations by the State Attorney General’s Office will clarify the exact circumstances.

Raúl was originally from Xicotepec and had previously served as Director of Crime Prevention in his hometown, where he led community campaigns and educational talks promoting legal awareness among youth. His death prompted condolences from the municipal government and heartfelt messages from colleagues and residents of the Sierra Norte region on social media.

This incident highlights the complex realities faced by those enforcing traffic laws, reminding us that no one is immune to the risks on the road—even those tasked with keeping us safe.