- • Nine people were shot dead inside a billiard hall in Santa Isabel neighborhood
- • Attack took place in Playas, a tourist city in southwestern Ecuador
- • Ecuadorian prosecutors launched an investigation; ballistic evidence collected
At least nine people were gunned down on Saturday night while playing pool inside a billiard hall in the Santa Isabel neighborhood of Playas, a tourist hub located in southwestern Ecuador, according to local authorities.
The Ecuadorian prosecutor’s office confirmed the attack in a public statement and said the incident is under active investigation. Preliminary details suggest that armed assailants stormed into the establishment and opened fire indiscriminately on those inside.
#AHORA | #Guayas: #FiscalíaEc inicia –de oficio– una investigación previa por el #Asesinato de 9 personas en un billar del barrio Santa Isabel, en #Playas. Se llevó a cabo el levantamiento de cadáveres e indicios balísticos en el lugar de los hechos. pic.twitter.com/YqEmaSpWBy
— Fiscalía Ecuador (@FiscaliaEcuador) July 20, 2025
The motive behind the mass shooting remains unclear, but the country has seen a sharp increase in organized crime and gang-related violence in recent years. Playas, typically known for its tourism and beachfront, has not been immune to the rising wave of insecurity sweeping Ecuador.
In a follow-up update, the prosecutor’s office stated it has opened a formal investigation into the crime scene and gathered evidence for analysis.
The authorities have not released the identities of the victims. No arrests have been reported so far. The investigation is ongoing as Ecuador continues to grapple with a surge in violent crimes linked to criminal networks.
Follow Virginia Times for regular news updates. Stay informed with the latest headlines, breaking stories, and in-depth reporting from around the world.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
