At the time of the shooting, Gastélum was accompanied by two people who were collaborating with him on the livestream. The recording captures one of the people traveling with Gastélum saying, "Let's go, guys," while another voice responds, "No, the motorcycle, the motorcycle." The exchange ends with Gastélum saying, "No, listen, I felt really bad. In the video, Gastélum wore a hat, a symbol that has been associated with La Mayiza since the cartel conflict began in September 2024. In Sinaloa, wearing or referencing a hat is closely associated with El Mayo Zambada, whose nickname among associates was "El del Sombrero."