On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Rafael “N,” accused of being the notorious sniper targeting drivers along Vía Atlixcáyotl in Puebla, will face a formal hearing to address charges of attempted homicide. Idamis Pastor Betancourt, the state’s attorney general, confirmed the hearing and emphasized that despite the defense’s potential request to extend legal deadlines, Rafael “N” is unlikely to secure an easy release given the severity of the accusations.

The arrest, which took place just over 24 hours ago in the Santa Fe residential area, followed a large-scale operation that involved meticulous investigative work to identify and capture the suspect. Pastor Betancourt shared details of the operation during interviews on various television and radio programs, highlighting the coordinated effort behind the scenes.

While the motive behind Rafael “N”’s attacks on motorists and motorcyclists remains unclear—he has yet to provide a statement explaining his actions—authorities have confirmed that he was immediately handed over to judicial authorities upon arrest. The exact time of the hearing today has not been disclosed.

During the judicial process, the defense may request a “duplicidad del término constitucional,” a legal mechanism to extend the time allowed for the case, potentially buying more time to build their defense. However, Pastor Betancourt stressed that the charges go beyond property damage or minor injuries. Rafael “N” faces attempted homicide accusations related to attacks on law enforcement officers and marines who were executing his arrest warrant.

This development marks a significant step toward restoring peace in Puebla, where the sniper attacks had escalated since mid-April 2026, causing widespread fear among residents. The swift capture and ongoing legal proceedings underscore the authorities’ commitment to public safety and justice.