A Cornwall businessman has been shot dead in front of his teenage daughter near a popular Mexican beach resort.
Two gunmen opened fire on Saturday when Chris Cleave, 54, was driving on a highway near Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo state near Cancun, Reuters news agency reported.
Cleve, a permanent resident of Mexico Since 2013, worked in real estate and, according to local media, was threatened by a local gang before the ambush.
His daughter, who was in the car, suffered injuries, which are believed to be non-life-threatening.
The businessman, originally from Truro, was described in tribute on Facebook as a “true friend” and a “great father”.
In one of dozens of posts mourning the murder, Kristen Amarhein said: “I am shocked, hurt and deeply disturbed by this terrible, terrible news.
“You were the highlight of my visits to Playa and I will miss you, my friend. I always looked forward to our funny exchanges and it was my privilege to know you.”
Laure Koltunsky wrote: “You were a great man, a great real estate broker, a great father. You are about to be missed.”
In another message, Sarah Jones said: “You were the most generous and helpful person I know, always making time for everyone. You made my life happier, easier and more joyful every day I knew you .
“I will miss our cups of tea, glasses of wine, British jokes and endless funny conversations. Playa is today mourning the loss of a true great man who did not deserve to be taken so soon.”
On March 9, three days before the shoot, Cleave shared the photos on Facebook to celebrate his daughter’s birthday.
The Quintana Roo state prosecutor’s office said two suspects were arrested later on Saturday on suspicion of their involvement in the murder.
A gun probably used was recovered from him at the time of his arrest.
The Mexican government deployed National Guard troops to Quintana Roo late last year after a spike in violence linked to organized crime.
In January, Two Canadian citizens shot dead At Hotel Xcaret in Playa del Carmen.
In a statement to Reuters, the British embassy said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Mexico and are in contact with Mexican police/local authorities.”