On 24 May 2023, thirteen people were killed when gunmen opened fire in a billiards hall, including four union representatives from Gildan Activewear’s factory in San Miguel, Choloma - the "Sindicato de Trabajadores de Gildan San Miguel" (STRAGSAM) President Xiomara Cocas, former President Delmer García and delegates Lesther Almendarez and José Rufino Ortíz. Eduardo Alexander Meléndez Cocas, Xiomara Cocas' son, was also killed. Gildan had recently announced that it will be closing the San Miguel factory, which produces licensed collegiate apparel by Fanatics, Lakeshirts, Lo + Jo Brands, MV Sport, New Agenda, and Onward Capital.

In the wake of these killings, the Central General de Trabajadores (CGT), the labour federation with which STRAGSAM is affiliated, has called for the Honduran authorities to investigate the murder of its leaders at Gildan Activewear San Miguel and prosecute those found responsible; and for the government and Gildan, itself, to protect the lives and safety of union members and workers at this factory and others in the Honduran garment industry.

Gildan announced that the facility will start to “gradually ramp down” at the end of July 2023 in response to market conditions, global competition, optimisation and diversification of its operations. In response to the killings, the company stated, “As you can imagine, we were devastated and deeply saddened to find out that some of our employees were killed,” the spokesperson said. “We have extended our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones and are providing them with the support and assistance they need during this difficult time, including assisting with the funeral arrangements and some financial support.”