2 CIA officers reportedly killed in crash after operation in Mexico that destroyed a drug lab

A car crash in Mexico on Sunday resulted in the deaths of two U.S. officials who were working for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The two had just been involved in the destruction of a clandestine drug lab in northern Chihuahua, Mexico, The Associated Press reported, citing a U.S. official and two other people familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Two Mexican investigators also died in the crash. 

The story was first reported by The Washington Post, citing Mexican officials who said the car skidded off the road, plunged down a ravine and exploded.

Chihuahuan Attorney General César Jáuregui Moreno told Mexico’s El Universal newspaper that the Americans were not directly involved in the raid on the lab, which he called “perhaps one of the largest ever located,” according to The Hill. 

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday that she planned to investigate if the operation into the drug lab violated Mexico’s national security laws.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson called the deaths a “tragic loss.”

“This tragedy is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those Mexican and U.S. officials who are dedicated to protecting our communities,” he wrote on X. “It strengthens our resolve to continue their mission and advance our shared commitment to security and justice, to protect our people.”

This incident comes amid increased pressure on Mexico from President Donald Trump to go after the Mexican drug cartels.