Mexico mourns as cartel violence claims beloved priest
Dramatic scenes unfolded after a mass in Mexico, where drug cartels murdered Father Marcelo Perez. The Jesuit was known for combating violence and drug addiction. This brutal crime was condemned by the country's president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
10:12 AM EDT, October 22, 2024
The tragedy occurred after a mass in the town of San Cristobal de Las Casas in the state of Chiapas, southern Mexico. Father Marcelo Perez was shot by members of a drug cartel. The clergyman worked with the Tzotzil, an indigenous ethnic group from the Maya family, and he himself came from their community.
The priest was known for his fight against drug cartels. He condemned crime and drug addiction. He repeatedly urged young, aspiring gangsters to "convert and take the path of lawfulness."
In many towns and communities, the violence is unbearable. There are many killed, many displaced. It's worrisome. Organized crime recruits youth, and young people are in danger, the clergyman said during one of the masses he conducted.
According to reports from Mexican media, the perpetrators fired at least four shots at the clergyman while riding a motorcycle.
Mexicans in shock after the priest's murder; president's reaction
The newspaper "El Sol de Mexico" cites representatives of the Jesuit order in Mexico, who believe the crime is "part of a wave of violence" directed at the local community. The issue was also addressed by Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
Sworn in on October 1, the politician strongly condemned the crime committed by members of the Mexican cartel. Sheinbaum stated that those responsible for the priest's murder would be caught and punished according to Mexican law.
