But this scenario has been reported multiple times on various boards here. I think I've only heard on one person claiming anything came of it -- basically an attempt to out him. Most seem to ignore the message, just don't respond at all (kind of like a phishing scam) and nothing ever happens.  

 
That said, given the clear threat of violence reporting the message and number to the FBI would certainly be an option. I would probably wait to see if some follow up with escalating language ensues rather than report it after just one message.

I've received it.  They may send you some gruesome pics as well.  It is a scam to get you send money.  No real threats.  If you are worried, change your phone number.  Always use a google or fake number when doing this stuff anyway.

... the moderators on /r/Scams have a canned response for it:

"AutoModerator has been summoned to explain the Escort or Cartel death threat scam.

It's a very common scam, and the scammers are not affiliated with cartels or crime groups, they are simply normal scammers using a threatening script. The threats are not real, and there is no risk to your safety whatsoever. The best way to react is to simply ignore the scammer and ignore any of their other contact attempts. Here are some news reports about the scam."

Linked articles:  
https://kyma.com/news/as-seen-on-tv/2020/02/12/threat-of-mexican-cartel-scams-continue-in-yuma/
https://kvia.com/news/new-mexico/2019/12/11/phone-scammers-target-las-cruces-threaten-drug-cartel-violence-if-you-dont-deliver-money/
https://patch.com/new-jersey/baskingridge/threat-mexican-cartel-hit-man-used-basking-ridge-scam-cops

if it were real they would be far more specific not so vague    i had an indy girl once try to extort me ... but i reminded her one of my dear friends is a police captain and ...... never heard from her again  LOL

I'm pretty confident the head of MS-13 has better things to do then make these type of calls. And, Mr. Guzman is not the name of the Head of MS-13.

I've gotten these when inquiring about certain latina providers on listcrawler.
They generally offer incall but don't post a location.

I use a Google Voice number. Without a warrant, that can't be traced to your email or anything else.
I just report spam, block and delete.

They will usually retry over a few days from different numbers and then give up.

Even in 'No bail' America, no one actually kills people for 'bothering' their girls. Still sad to think how many people might panic and pay.

I do use a Google # and I did block them.
I was pretty sure it was a scam. It's just great to get validation from you guys here. Appreciate it!

Listcralwer and Meg a sites. The point is to scrare you into giving them money. Just block. You may run into them more than once if you contact several ladies. Best way to avoid them is check to see if the lady is established meaning reviews, website , social medias etc. Used to be a lot of them on BP back in the day too. Age old scam unfortunately.

I always respond the same behind my burner phone  

"I choose the hard way. Fuck you, bring it bitch"  

The responses vary.