Baja Norte

Governor Marina del Pilar handed over ten electric carriages to local drivers
 Articles, Economy, Ensenada, Tourism

Ensenada Rolls Out Electric Carriages: Tradition Meets Innovation

Ensenada has taken a significant step toward sustainable tourism

On April 21, Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda gave out ten electric carriages to local drivers. These will replace the old horse-drawn ones.

The new rides carry four passengers. They’re quiet, eco-friendly, and best of all, no horses needed.

The state invested 2.75 million pesos through its Department of Economy and Innovation. Officials also plan to install charging stations across town.

#MarinaDelPilar And Claudia A

This move follows a new law in Baja California. It bans animals from pulling carriages for tourism. It also recognizes animals as living beings, not property.

“This is a big day,” said the governor. “We’re ending horse-drawn rides and moving to clean, modern transport—without losing our charm.”

The change didn’t happen overnight. Authorities worked with drivers to find solutions. Now, drivers get to keep their jobs—and horses get to rest.

Jenny de la Cruz, speaking for the group, thanked the state for helping them modernize. She said the change protects a tradition that’s been part of Ensenada for over 40 years.

So yes, you can still ride through Ensenada’s scenic streets. But now, the wheels are quiet—and the animals are free.

Here at the Gringo Gazette North, we love when old traditions meet new ideas. Especially when everyone wins—including the horses.

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Sea lions who eat contaminated seafood become poisoned.
 Articles, Rosarito

Toxic Algae Threatens Sea Lions in Rosarito

Rising Concerns Over Toxic Algae Bloom Impact on Sea Lions

In recent days, at least four sea lions have washed up dead on Rosarito’s beaches. Additionally, seven others were rescued alive—but in serious condition.

According to experts, the cause is a toxic algae bloom. This bloom produces domoic acid, which builds up in fish and shellfish. As a result, sea lions who eat contaminated seafood become poisoned.

Although red tide isn’t new, this recent wave is stronger and more frequent. Consequently, officials and marine groups are raising alarms.

Photo: Courtesy / City of Playas de Rosarito

Moreover, the effects are heartbreaking. One young pup was spotted nudging its mother’s lifeless body. That moment, captured on video, spread quickly on social media.

The toxin attacks the nervous system. It causes seizures, confusion, and often death. Even though rescue teams responded quickly, they couldn’t save every animal.

Therefore, local authorities are asking residents and tourists not to approach stranded sea lions. These animals may be sick, aggressive, or contagious. Instead, they encourage people to report sightings to 911.

Beaches remain open. However, people with asthma or other respiratory issues should be cautious. Some toxins can become airborne under the right conditions.

Furthermore, seafood lovers should pay attention to local health alerts. Domoic acid can harm humans too—especially when it enters the food chain.

Ultimately, this isn’t just about sea lions. It’s about the health of our coastline. Changing ocean temperatures, pollution, and runoff are part of the problem. If we don’t pay attention, we may be next.

At the Gringo Gazette North, we’ll keep covering stories like this. Because we don’t just love Baja’s beaches—we respect the life around them, too.

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 Baja Norte, Editions

April 21, 2025 Edition

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 Healthcare, San Felipe

San Felipe Hospital Gets a Much-Needed Upgrade (Finally!)

Good news, San Felipe — your community hospital just got a serious facelift. Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda stopped by recently to check out the upgrades, which came with a 40-million-peso price tag (that’s around $2.3 million USD, but who’s counting?).

The hospital, part of the IMSS Bienestar system, now boasts shiny new equipment, extra space, and — wait for it — actual specialists! That’s right, no more crossing your fingers that your sprained ankle or mystery stomach pain can hold off until your next trip to Mexicali.

The overhaul included 18 million pesos for infrastructure and 22 million for equipment. That translated into two operating rooms, a recovery area, 20 hospital beds, X-ray services, and a completely revamped emergency room with a shock room, an isolation chamber, and even a lounge for the doctors (because yes, rested doctors are better doctors).

Governor Marina del Pilar made it clear: this is part of an ongoing effort to make healthcare more reliable in San Felipe. With the hospital now in full swing — thanks in part to previous federal construction efforts and current coordination with President Claudia Sheinbaum — the aim is to ensure specialists are permanently stationed here, not just dropping in like seasonal tourists.

Speaking of help, six Cuban doctors are already on staff, and six more were flown in for the busy Semana Santa season. Their specialties cover internal medicine, surgery, anesthesiology, trauma, and orthopedics — basically, all the stuff you hope you won’t need but are glad to have just in case.

So, if you were thinking about testing your luck with that ATV jump — maybe don’t. But if you do, at least now there’s a decent hospital waiting for you on the other side.

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 Public Security, Rosarito

Half the Cops Failed Their Test, So the Marines are Stepping In

Rosarito’s Mayor says “Better fewer good cops than more bad ones”

In a move that sounds shocking—but also kind of reassuring—Rosarito’s mayor Rocío Adame Muñoz announced that 122 police officers are getting the boot after failing their control and trust evaluations. That’s nearly half of the city’s active and commercial police force. Yikes.

Out of 277 officers evaluated, more than a hundred were deemed “not fit” for service. The city has now begun the formal process to show them the door. No scandal, no cover-up—just a big, ugly clean-up.

But before anyone panics about security—especially with vacation season and the Tianguis Turístico just around the corner—Mayor Adame says the Marines and the National Guard will step in to fill the gaps and keep everyone safe. Because nothing says “we’ve got this under control” like calling in the Marines.

Still, Adame is taking a no-nonsense stance: “It’s better to have fewer good officers than a full squad of the wrong kind.”Hard to argue with that.

The remaining officers who passed their evaluations will return to duty, and efforts are already underway to recruit new, reliable candidates through the police academy.

“We don’t need to be alarmed,” said the mayor, reassuring residents and tourists alike. “The ones who are staying are trustworthy and will do a good job. The rest will be handled properly.”

So while the timing isn’t ideal, the message is clear: Rosarito is cleaning house. And honestly, if nearly half your police force flunks a trust test, better now than never.

With federal forces stepping in and a renewed focus on quality over quantity, let’s hope this shake-up leads to a stronger, safer Rosarito—because what’s worse than no cops? Bad ones.

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 Baja Norte, Rosarito, Transportation

Uber Finally Reaches the Streets of Rosarito—Just in Time for Tourist Season

It’s official—Uber is now rolling through the streets of Playas de Rosarito. The ride-hailing giant just launched operations in the beachside city, and local officials say it couldn’t have come at a better time. With vacation season heating up and the 2025 Tianguis Turístico event on the horizon, both locals and tourists are getting a much-needed boost in mobility.

“This is a huge step forward for Rosarito,” said Mayor Rocío Adame Muñoz. “Visitors now have a safer, easier way to move around and enjoy everything our city has to offer.”

For international visitors, this launch makes getting around Rosarito a lot easier. No need to worry about language barriers or negotiating taxi fares—just open the Uber app, set your pickup point, and go. The app works the same in Rosarito as it does back home, so American tourists in particular will feel right at home. You can even pay with your usual debit or credit card through the app, so there’s no need to carry cash.

Uber’s launch includes all of its top safety features: live GPS tracking, encrypted audio recordings, 911 integration, real-time ride monitoring, and even a PIN system to make sure you get in the right car. The app is also connected to Baja’s emergency response system (C5), giving riders peace of mind at every step.

For residents, Uber also brings new job opportunities. The platform offers flexible income options for people of all walks of life—students, single parents, retirees, and more.

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Humane Society, Legal, Tijuana

Bullfights Are Back in Tijuana! Court Lifts Ban and Sparks Big Reactions

After nearly a year of silence in the bullrings, bullfighting is making a comeback in Baja California. A federal court has unanimously overturned the judicial suspension that had stopped all bullfighting events in the state since April 2023.

The news was shared by Manuel Bowser Miret, owner of the Nuevo Toreo in Tijuana, who celebrated what he called a “legal victory” for fans and supporters of the tradition. With the suspension lifted, events can now legally return to venues like the iconic Tijuana bullring.

Photo: Clarence Alford. Adobe Stock

Bowser said more announcements will be made soon, including what’s next for bullfighting in the region.

The ban began after animal rights groups filed a legal motion that was backed by federal authorities. It even forced the cancellation of a major event planned for July 2023. Since then, bullfighting in Baja California had been off the table—until now.

This court decision reignites a long-standing debate between culture and animal rights. While some cheer the return of la Fiesta Brava, others are already calling for new legal battles. One thing’s for sure—bullfighting is no longer just a memory in Tijuana.

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Photo courtesy of Zeta Tijuana
 Public Security, Tijuana

Massive Baja Manhunt for Cop-Killing Fugitive

Suspect escapes despite choppers, drones, and elite forces

Just when Baja officials were patting themselves on the back over dropping crime stats, a violent fugitive turned Tijuana into a war zone—and got away.

Abigail Esparza Reyes

On Wednesday afternoon, Abigail Esparza Reyes, commander of Liaison for Baja California’s State Citizen Security Force (FESC), better known as the Gringo Hunters, was shot and killed while attempting to serve an arrest warrant in the gated neighborhood of Residencial Barcelona. The target? Allegedly César Hernández, a U.S. fugitive wanted since December 2024 by the Delano Police Department in California.

What was supposed to be a routine operation turned deadly. Hernández opened fire, hitting Esparza Reyes before barricading himself inside a home. Despite being rushed to the Red Cross in Tijuana, the officer later died of her injuries.

Cue one of the biggest law enforcement mobilizations in recent memory: local, state, and federal forces swarmed the area. Two helicopters buzzed overhead, three drones scanned the streets, and a tactical unit rolled in. Residents captured dramatic footage of the standoff, expecting a dramatic capture. But after four hours of searching, the fugitive managed to slip away—again.

This wasn’t Hernández’s first escape. Reports say he previously fled U.S. custody while in court—yes, you read that right.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila expressed her condolences, promising justice: “The life of Abigail will be honored, and her death will not go unpunished.” She also praised the courage of the officers involved in the operation.

Suspect escapes walking after killing a state police officer

Still, the incident raises serious questions—how did a known fugitive manage to kill an officer, escape a massive manhunt, and vanish in plain sight?

The timing couldn’t be worse. Just a day earlier, officials were showcasing glossy graphs about falling crime rates, boasting Tijuana had dropped from second to tenth place in national homicide rankings. But real safety isn’t measured in stats—it’s measured in justice, accountability, and making sure criminals, whether local or international, don’t get a free pass.

This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about protecting the people who risk their lives for the rest of us. No tolerance for violence. No excuses for failure. No forgetting Abigail.

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Eye on the sidewalk colors before you park!
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, Legal

Parking in Ensenada Just Got Colorful

—Pay Attention or Pay the Price

Planning a stroll down Ensenada’s tourist zone? Better start looking at the sidewalk colors, not just the wine list.

New rules are now in effect: green curbs mean you can only park for two hours. Yes, two. After that, move it or risk a fine. The city made the change after businesses complained that some folks were parking all day. We get it—those tacos are hard to leave.

White curbs? Those are only for loading and unloading tourist buses. Don’t even think about parking your SUV there while grabbing souvenirs.

Why all the paint? Because Ensenada, like most beautiful places, has a parking problem. Officials want to keep traffic flowing and tourists happy. Rotating cars more often means more chances to find a spot—at least in theory.


Parking along Ensenada’s tourist zone—especially Calle Primera—is still a challenge. But with new two-hour zones and clearer curb markings, things are expected to improve. Just keep an eye on the sidewalk colors before you park!

This isn’t just for locals. Expats and visitors are affected too. So, next time you head downtown, keep an eye on the curb. Green? Set a timer. White? Drive away slowly and act innocent.

Local police say they’ll enforce these changes. Whether that means tickets or just warnings remains to be seen. But hey, better safe than booted.

At the Gringo Gazette North, we’re here to help you park smart, not pay dumb. Watch the colors and enjoy Ensenada—just not from behind the wheel too long.

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 Articles, Ensenada, Transportation

Ensenada Will Be The First City in Mexico to Roll Out Local EV Buses

Move over Tesla, Ensenada is getting its own fleet of electric vehicles—and they’re way bigger than a sedan.

That’s right, our little coastal city is making national headlines as the first in Mexico to launch a full fleet of electric buses, designed and built right here in Mexico by DINA and MegaFlux. The shiny new model? It’s called Taruk—which, honestly, sounds like the name of a sci-fi superhero… and we’re here for it.

In the coming months, 80 Taruk buses will hit the streets in the first stage of a mega plan to eventually roll out 345 units across all 78 public transport routes in Ensenada. If you’ve ever tried to get from one end of town to the other during rush hour, you’ll know just how welcome this is.

Mayor Claudia Agatón is leading the charge—pun intended—and she’s not being subtle about it: “Ensenada isn’t just adopting clean tech, we’re writing the manual for Mexico’s energy transition,” she said. “Our port city is going to be the live lab for proving electric public transport works—both technically and financially.”

Taaruk Bus. Photo courtesy of Dyna México

Each Taruk bus can travel 390 km on a single charge, enough for a full 12-hour workday with the AC on full blast. And yes, they’ve already been tested under real-world conditions in Mexico City—because if a bus can survive that traffic, it can survive anything.

But this isn’t just about swapping diesel fumes for cleaner air. The project is Made in Mexico from start to finish—so every bus represents local jobs, homegrown know-how, and a big win for Mexican manufacturing. According to the numbers: each vehicle creates 25 jobs in the supply chain, and 78 out of every 100 pesos spent stays in the national economy. Compare that with imported buses, where most of the cash flies out of the country faster than a tourist spotting a taco stand.

In Ensenada alone, the project has already generated 50 new specialized jobs, with plans to train another 200 technicians before the end of the year. Plus, MegaFlux will install fast and slow charging stations across the city, working with the national electric utility (CFE) to make sure the grid doesn’t blow a fuse.

And guess what? Other states are watching closely. Baja California Sur, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Hidalgo, Michoacán… they all want in on the action. No surprise there—the federal government has already set its sights on deploying 3,000 electric buses nationwide in the next few years.

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