U.S. Embassy issues security alert in Mexicali due to ‘potential threat’

MEXICALI, Mexico (KESQ) - U.S. government activities in, and travel to, Mexicali have been suspended on Tuesday, August 25, due to "threat information," the U.S. Embassy in Mexico announced.

"We are alerting U.S. citizens of this potential threat," the agency wrote in a message Monday night.

There were no additional details on the threat available.

Mexicali is located about 100 miles south of Coachella, which also serves as its sister city. Several East Valley residents are known to have relatives or loved ones in Mexicali.

News Channel 3's Matthew Pearce traveled to Calexico Tuesday, the California city on the other side of the border from Mexicali. On the U.S. side, there wasn't much activity, other than a U.S. helicopter seen patrolling the area.

Mathew spoke about the situation with Calexico Mayor Victor Legaspi.

"I gained insight on how officials are working to keep citizens on the US side of the border safe. One of the things that I've told our citizens is that I assure them that here in the city of Calexico they're safe," said Calexico Mayor Victor Legaspi. "I know that on the Mexicali side they're in full force. The Mexicali agencies, police force, is in full force. I mean, they're doing extra patrols, what I've heard, but other than that, I mean we're protecting, we're keeping our citizens here in Calexico safe."

Legaspi emphasized the importance of being alert anytime you're crossing borders, regardless of whether there's a security alert or not.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico advises:

• Avoid government buildings in Mexicali
• Seek shelter in the event of an incident
• Notify friends and family of your safety in the event of an incident
• Follow instructions from Mexican law enforcement
• Monitor local media for updates
• Be aware of your surroundings

For assistance visit:
Contact Form  
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico 
From Mexico: (55) 5080 2000 
From the United States: 011 52 55 5080 2000 
Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444

Stay with News Channel 3 for any updates.