(KGTV) – Mexico’s government is threatening legal action against the United States in the aftermath of the mass shooting in El Paso, Texas.
In the Aug. 3 shooting at a Walmart store, at least 20 people were killed and 26 were injured. Among the dead were six Mexican nationals, with several others injured.
Investigators believe the suspected gunman authored an online manifesto that included hate-filled language aimed at Hispanics and immigrants.
Mexico Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard responded to the act of “barbarism” in a Twitter video and promised his country would take action.
Ebrard also said Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has ordered prompt and forceful legal action to protect Mexican-Americans and Mexicans who are visiting the U.S.
In the Twitter post, Ebrard said his government would look into whether there is enough evidence to have the accused gunman extradited to Mexico to face charges.
RELATED: El Paso shooting: Mexico explores legal action against U.S.
Dr. Ramona Perez, director for the Center of Latin American Studies at San Diego State University, believes a lawsuit is very possible.
"I think that the gun issue coupled with the way in which Mexican migrants are being treated, as well as Mexicans in the US, I think it's something that they've basically had enough," said Perez.
Perez also pointed out that the U.S. would likely do the same if American citizens were in danger in other countries.
"I think Mexico has no choice, just like the U.S. would have no choice but to take action against a country that’s not protecting it’s visiting residents from another country," Perez added.
President Trump has not responded publicly to the threat of legal action.
