Tragic Mexico Shooting Claims Lives of Two Arizona Sisters

By Matthew Holloway |

In a tragic incident, two Arizona sisters, Enedina N., aged 72, and Ubaldina N., aged 82, were discovered deceased in their white Nissan Pathfinder, which was found riddled with bullet holes off Mexican Federal Highway 2, about 21 miles from Sonoyta. Authorities reported the incident occurred on August 23, with both women originally from Caborca, Sonora, and traveling home.

The Sonora Attorney General’s Office confirmed the vehicle had overturned at kilometer 221+500, reporting matronly victims on their way to visit family. One sister held dual U.S.-Mexican citizenship, while the other was a permanent resident. A detailed investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances of their deaths.

After the shooting, law enforcement agencies, including SEDENA and officers from the National Guard, located a stolen navy blue 2023 Ford F150. The vehicle contained several high-caliber weapons and magazines, raising concerns about organized crime in the area. This section of Federal Highway 2 has gained notoriety for violence linked to drug trafficking and migrant smuggling.

In a statement, prosecutors emphasized that security forces from multiple government levels rapidly initiated searches for the suspects. The Biden-Harris Administration has expressed condolences, noting that U.S. authorities are closely observing the situation but did not provide additional information.

Family members of the victims have shared their grief. The son of one sister, speaking anonymously, conveyed his shock over the violent loss of his mother and aunt, who were known for their kindness and community support. He described their deaths as devastating, occurring shortly after their family had suffered another loss from cancer.

The son shared harrowing details, indicating that the shooting likely occurred while the vehicle was in motion, leading to immediate tragedy for both women. He lamented the lack of communication from authorities regarding the investigation’s progress, expressing uncertainty about any leads or arrests.

This incident underscores the ongoing violence that plagues certain regions, with the son reflecting on a cycle of crime that has persisted over decades, impacting innocent lives. He characterized the deadly encounter as a “wrong place, wrong time” scenario, casting a shadow of despair over the tight-knit community affected by these horrific events.

For now, the family waits for answers as the investigation unfolds, wrestling with the aftermath of a crime that has shattered their lives.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News.