Mexican Schoolchildren Forced to Hit the Ground Amidst Military-Criminal Gunfight

Gunfire Erupts Near Schools in Mexico; Students Forced to Take Cover A terrifying incident unfolded in Navolato, Sinaloa, Mexico, on May 20, 2025, when a shootout between alleged criminals and the military forced students at three schools to take cover. The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, prompted a teacher to instruct her students to lie on the floor to avoid becoming casualties. "Little ones, don't get up," the teacher's voice is heard urgently in a video recording of the event. "This is for your protection." The video shows children huddled under desks and on the floor as shots ring out nearby. According to the Sinaloa Secretary of Education, three schools in the Villa Angel Flores La Palma community implemented safety protocols during the crossfire. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of violence and crime affecting educational institutions in Mexico. While no injuries were reported in this specific instance, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by students and educators daily. The ongoing investigation into the incident is expected to shed more light on the circumstances that led to the shootout and the measures being taken to ensure the safety of students.