A tattoo artist was shot and killed while working with a client in San Cristóbal, Mixco, Guatemala on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 9, 2025. The victim has been identified as 24-year-old José Nery Colocho Benavides, who was well-known for his work in a local tattoo studio specializing in realism.

The armed attack occurred in a commercial area near Seventh Avenue and Third Street in zone 8 of Mixco. Surveillance footage from a nearby camera shows an individual wearing dark clothing and a motorcycle helmet entering the tattoo studio and opening fire on Colocho Benavides as he attended to a customer. After shooting the victim, the assailant fled the scene on a motorcycle driven by an accomplice.

Police and volunteer firefighters responded to the scene and confirmed that Colocho Benavides had died from his wounds. Emergency responders also provided assistance to clients, coworkers, and family members present at the location who were experiencing emotional distress.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder. At this time, the motive for the shooting and the identities of those responsible remain unknown. Law enforcement officials are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses as part of their inquiry.