Vicki Gunvalson, the 63-year-old television personality known for her role on The Real Housewives of Orange County, has confirmed her safety following a security crisis in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where she maintains vacation properties.
On Sunday, February 22, Gunvalson addressed concerned followers through her Instagram Story, stating she was not currently in the affected region. "I'm safe and not in Puerto Vallarta. Thank you so much for all the messages and concern. It truly means a lot," she wrote, accompanying her message with a white heart emoji.
The reality star urged her followers to extend their thoughts to those affected by the ongoing situation. "Please join me in keeping everyone affected in your prayers. Sending love and heartfelt thoughts to all who need them right now," Gunvalson added in her statement.
Security Operations Prompt U.S. Embassy Warning
The message from Gunvalson came as the United States Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued urgent advisories for American citizens. Following a Mexican military operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation drug cartel, authorities warned of ongoing security operations and related criminal activity.
The embassy directed citizens in multiple locations, including Puerto Vallarta, to shelter in place until further notice due to road blockages and security concerns. The situation has resulted in numerous flight cancellations to and from the affected areas.
Long-Standing Connection to Puerto Vallarta
Gunvalson has maintained a significant presence in Puerto Vallarta for several years. In 2020, she announced the purchase of her first condominium in the coastal city, describing it as one of her favorite destinations after more than three decades of visiting the area.
At the time of her initial purchase, Gunvalson acknowledged the unusual timing, as the transaction occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I know some of you may think it's wrong, especially in the state of the world, but for me it immediately gives me hope and peace that things will resume to a new sense of normal soon," she wrote on Instagram.
The television personality demonstrated her commitment to the local community by donating bedding and furniture to an orphanage and employing local painters and decorators for renovations. She described the property as providing happiness and peace, despite acknowledging the decision was not made lightly.
Later in 2020, Gunvalson reaffirmed her satisfaction with the investment, characterizing it as "one of my best decisions." Her confidence in the area led her to purchase a second condominium in Puerto Vallarta in 2022, which she described as an investment property with ocean views and sunset vistas.
As recently as 2024, Gunvalson shared updates on her properties via social media, referring to the condominiums as her "home away from home" and expressing satisfaction with the completed renovations.
The current security situation underscores the unpredictable nature of travel to certain regions of Mexico, even in popular tourist destinations. American citizens with travel plans to affected areas are advised to monitor official State Department guidance and embassy communications for the latest security updates.