In a heartbreaking discovery near the Texas border, authorities have confirmed that the remains of five missing musicians from the band Grupo Fugitivo were found outside Reynosa, Mexico. The group, known for performing regional Mexican music at local events, had vanished on May 25 while en route to a show.

Investigators say the men were abducted around 10 p.m. that night while traveling in an SUV. Nine suspects believed to be tied to a faction of the Gulf Cartel have since been arrested. Officials have not confirmed reports that the bodies were burned, and the motive behind the killings remains unclear.

Grupo Fugitivo’s disappearance drew widespread outrage in Tamaulipas, a state long plagued by cartel violence. Families led protests and vigils, even blocking the international bridge between Reynosa and Pharr, Texas, demanding justice.

Regional Mexican music has seen a global resurgence, but it’s also come under scrutiny—some artists have faced threats or visa issues due to alleged ties to songs that glorify drug lords. It’s unknown whether Grupo Fugitivo performed such music or were simply caught in the crossfire of cartel terror.

Their last contact was a message to family the night they disappeared—then silence. Now, a community mourns not just the loss of five musicians, but the continued violence gripping their city.