Ernesto Barajas was a talented singer and musician who made a name for himself in the world of music. He was the lead vocalist and bassist of the regional Mexican band, Enigma Norteno. During his time in the band, he earned a lot of respect and love from fans.
The popular singer, Ernesto Barajas, recently was shot dead during a targeted attack in Jalisco, Mexico. His sudden death shocked fans and raised a lot of questions about the risks artists face. Several witnesses and reporters said that men on a motorcycle went to his car, spoke to him and then started shooting.
Who was Ernesto Barajas?
Ernesto Barajas was born in September 1986, in Sinaloa, Mexico. From an early age, Ernesto showed interest and strong passion for music, especially for traditional sounds. He used to combine accordions and guitars to tell powerful stories. From an early age, he was drawn towards writing and performing. He started off experimenting with lyrics and melodies.
The formation of Enigma Norteno
In 2004, Ernesto partnered with guitarist, Humberto Perez and founded the popular band, Enigma Norteno. Both young artists shared similar dreams and goals. Without any big record labels or any support, the duo independently went on to release their first album, El Jardinero, which marked the beginning of a regional Mexican band. Their music was full of traditional sounds but Ernesto’s lyrics stood out the most.

As their reputation grew, more musicians showed their desire to join the band. Gradually, two talented artists, who joined the band were Freddy Hernandez and Jose Baldenegro. Together they made a strong band and experimented with music. They gave songs like Amor De Cuatro Paredes, El Ondeado and more. Later, Alonso Hernandez, Conin Camacho and Adan Hernandez also joined the band.
Ernesto Barajas’ personal life
In his personal life, Ernesto was married to Alexis Sillas and together the duo had two children- son, Ernesto Jr. and a daughter, Alix Emilia. According to multiple media outlets, the duo married around 2012. Apart from being a musician, Ernesto also used to run a popular podcast, Puntos de Vista, where he interacted with other artists. One of his episodes with Jesus Ortiz-Paz reached a big audience.
Threats and deaths in the band, Enigma Norteno
After the Enigma Norteno band started receiving love and fame, they also started facing real danger. Over the years, the band was threatened quite sometimes. Earlier, in 2015, one of the band members, Jose Baldenegro was kidnapped and found dead. Local reports mentioned that he was taken and killed by an armed group. Later, in 2023, the band and especially Ernesto received a cloth banner message, which is used to threaten people. The message warned them from performing and because of that threat, the band cancelled their shows at that time.
Ernesto Barajas’ death
Ernesto Barajas, the founder of the band, Enigma Norteno, was shot and killed on August 19, 2025, in Zapopan, Jalisco. Reportedly, he was in his car, when attackers on a bike came towards him, asked and checked, who was inside it and after confirming they shot him dead. A person, who was along with Ernesto also died at the scene and a woman nearby was injured. As per reports, there has been no official statement from Ernesto’s family or the band members. While the locals have confirmed an investigation, there is no update as of now.
Ernesto Barajas’ life was a mix of musical success and constant risk. His powerful voice and unique storytelling skills made him stand out, but also drew danger towards him. What are your thoughts on Ernesto’s sudden and unexpected death?
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