Authorities in Jalisco have confirmed that two men found dead inside a vehicle at Plaza Caracol in Puerto Vallarta died from gunshot wounds, moving the case into a homicide investigation. The men had been reported missing earlier in the week after leaving for delivery work. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and processing evidence from the vehicle, while no arrests have been reported. The case has drawn attention because of where the vehicle was found and the unanswered questions around how it arrived there.

Two men found in Plaza Caracol vehicle were shot

State authorities say two men found dead inside a vehicle at Plaza Caracol in Puerto Vallarta died from gunshot wounds, based on preliminary forensic findings.

The case is now being investigated as intentional homicide. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and processing evidence collected from the vehicle and parking lot.

No arrests had been reported as of the latest available information.

What authorities have confirmed

The bodies were found on Thursday, May 14, inside a gray Renault Kwid parked at Plaza Caracol, a commercial center in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone.

Police and emergency personnel responded after people in the area reported a strong odor coming from the vehicle. The parking area was closed off while investigators and forensic personnel worked at the scene.

The two men were later identified as Leonardo García de la Cruz, 40, and Jovany Salvador López Ornelas, 41.

Both had been reported missing after leaving together on Tuesday, May 12. They were reportedly carrying out delivery work toward Las Palmas and La Estancia.

Investigation remains open

Authorities have not publicly reported a motive or named any suspects. They also have not confirmed where the shooting occurred or how long the vehicle had been parked at Plaza Caracol.

Investigators are reviewing video from nearby cameras to determine when the vehicle arrived and who may have left it there.

For residents who use Plaza Caracol for errands, shopping, or banking, the discovery’s location has heightened concern about the case. Authorities have not reported a broader public warning tied to the commercial center.

The investigation remains active, and more details are expected through the Jalisco Prosecutor’s Office as forensic and police work continues.