Two U.S. Embassy personnel were killed in what officials described as an "accident" in Mexico, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson announced Sunday.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two U.S. Embassy personnel, the Director of Chihuahua’s State Investigation Agency (AEI), and an AEI officer in this accident. We honor their dedication and tireless efforts to confront one of the greatest challenges of our time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones," Johnson said in a post on X.
The ambassador also said that the tragedy underscores the risks officials face while carrying out their duties.
"This tragedy is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those Mexican and U.S. officials who are dedicated to protecting our communities," he said. "It strengthens our resolve to continue their mission and advance our shared commitment to security and justice, to protect our people."
Details remain unclear, including the nature and location of the incident and whether the personnel were U.S. citizens.
Mexican authorities announced Sunday that multiple officers, including U.S. Embassy personnel, died after returning from a major weekend operation to dismantle "clandestine drug laboratories" in Morelos.
"The Attorney General of State, Cesar Jáuregui Moreno, mourned this morning the death of elements of the State Investigation Agency, as well as two instructing officers of the United States Embassy, who died in an accident when returning from the operation of destroying clandestine laboratories in the Municipality of Morelos," the Chihuahua State Attorney General's Office said.
Personnel from multiple agencies reportedly carried out the operation on April 17 and 18 following a three-month investigation, dismantling six large-scale synthetic drug production sites.
One of the locations was described as "one of the largest found in the country," where chemical drugs such as methamphetamine were produced, Moreno said in a statement.
Authorities said they seized a significant amount of industrial equipment, including ovens, gas cylinders and thousands of liters of chemical precursors, as well as a camp used to house workers.
The state has since turned the case over to federal prosecutors, who will continue the legal process against those involved in the illicit activity.
The State Prosecutor's Office identified the deceased AEI director as Mtro. Pedro Roman Oseguera Cervantes and the AEI agent as Lic. Manuel Genaro Mendez Montes, adding that Montes "unfortunately lost his life in an accident in the line of his duty."
"We recognize your bravery, dedication and commitment to keeping our state safe. We are with his family, colleagues and friends in this irreparable loss," the Attorney General's Office said.