Holiday Beach Parking Feud Sparks Outrage in Progreso

Progreso, Yucatán — A religious celebration in honor of San Pedro González Telmo, the patron saint of fishermen, was disrupted by a heated confrontation between a couple from outside Yucatán and local residents over parking near a public beach area. The incident occurred during the Easter Sunday mass held on the shore of Progreso.

Verbal Altercation Erupts Over Parking Space

Witnesses reported that attendees of the mass parked their vehicles along the beach, which angered the couple—a foreign woman and a man from Mexico City—who claimed the cars blocked access to their coastal property. Despite the vehicles not being on their private land, the couple demanded their removal, leading to a shouting match with locals.

The situation escalated when the couple allegedly released two dogs to intimidate bystanders, prompting attendees to retreat. Videos of the altercation circulated on social media, capturing the exchange of shouts and insults.

Police and Mayor Intervene

Municipal police officers arrived at the scene, and Progreso Mayor Erik Rihani attempted to mediate. The mayor urged attendees to move their vehicles to prevent further conflict but did not address the couple’s aggressive actions.

The incident has reignited discussions about tensions between newcomers and long-time residents in Yucatán, where disputes over public spaces and property access have become increasingly common.

Related Incidents Highlight Growing Tensions

This is not the first time conflicts involving out-of-towners have made headlines in the region. Recent reports include:

• A TikToker criticizing Yucatán’s culture, sparking backlash.
• An influencer blaming real estate agencies for misleading newcomers about living conditions in the state.
• A viral video showing an elderly man being harassed by outsiders in Mérida.

Authorities have yet to comment on whether further action will be taken regarding the Progreso altercation.