Two altar boys were murdered shot in Entabladero, in Espinal, Veracruzon Saturday night while they were carrying out cleaning work, in the company of their mother, in the parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
According to local media reports, minors Alex N and José N, sons of Gregoria Arroyo Cruz, originally from La Sabaneta, Coxquihui, were attacked outside the temple; one of them died at the scene and the other died hours later in the hospital.
You may be interested in: Rubén Rocha rules out that the cancellation of the Livestock Expo was due to threats
Through a statement, the State Prosecutor’s Office assured that there will be no impunity and that it identified one of those responsible.
Although not many details of the case are known, it was learned that it was through the emergency number that this crime was reported.
Uniformed personnel came to the scene, who confirmed that one victim lacked vital signs and another was injured, so she was transferred from the emergency room to the Totonacapan hospital for medical attention.
It is known that the attackers fled aboard a motorcycle and the motive for the attack is currently unknown.
It was the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe that published the event through its social networks to request financial support for the family members.
The Attorney General reports in COESCONPAZ, progress in the investigations into the unfortunate events in which two minors with protected identities lost their lives in the municipality of Espinal. pic.twitter.com/dW9Pb4uUaY
— FGE Veracruz (@FGE_Veracruz) November 11, 2024
Related
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert on Violence and Community Safety
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Ramirez, a sociologist specializing in community violence and its impacts on youth. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Ramirez.
Dr. Elena Ramirez: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important issue.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Just recently, we reported on a tragic incident in Espinal, Veracruz, where two altar boys were murdered while cleaning the parish with their mother. This is a shocking event for the community. What are your immediate thoughts on the implications of such violence?
Dr. Ramirez: My heart goes out to the families affected by this tragedy. Such violence, particularly against children, sends shockwaves through a community. It erodes the sense of safety that families and especially young individuals should feel while engaging in community activities, like helping out at their local church.
Editor: Absolutely. The boys, Alex and José, were doing something as innocent as cleaning the church. How does violent crime against minors like this affect the community’s perception of safety and security?
Dr. Ramirez: Crimes like this can lead to heightened anxiety and distrust within the community. Parents may become overly protective, preventing their children from engaging in social or community-oriented activities. This not only affects the individuals directly involved but also stifles community bonding and collective action against violence.
Editor: In your opinion, what could be the long-term effects of this incident on the youth of Espinal?
Dr. Ramirez: Unfortunately, such events can create cycles of trauma. Survivors and witnesses may experience PTSD or learn to see their environment as dangerous, leading to behavioral issues. Furthermore, children may internalize this sense of danger, which can affect their mental health, academic performance, and social interactions.
Editor: It’s a sobering thought. What role do community leaders and local authorities play in mitigating these impacts after such incidents?
Dr. Ramirez: Community leaders must step up and offer support. They should create safe spaces for dialogue, provide mental health resources, and implement community safety programs. Local authorities also need to act decisively to investigate these crimes and hold perpetrators accountable, which sends a message that violence will not be tolerated.
Editor: Given the national context of violence in Mexico, how can communities build resilience in the face of such events?
Dr. Ramirez: Resilience can be fostered through community engagement. Initiating programs that encourage youth participation in arts, sports, and community service can help rebuild trust and offer a positive outlet. Education is also essential; equipping young people with skills to advocate for their safety and well-being encourages empowerment rather than fear.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for your insights. It’s crucial to engage in these conversations about safety and community resilience, especially in light of these tragic events. Before we wrap up, what is your message to those listening today about dealing with violence in their communities?
Dr. Ramirez: My message would be this: it’s important to remember that we are not powerless. Communities can respond through unity, advocacy, and support for one another. When we stand together, we can challenge the narratives of fear and foster environments of safety and hope for future generations.
Editor: Wise words indeed. Thank you once again, Dr. Ramirez, for sharing your expertise and perspective. We all have a role to play in making our communities safer.
Dr. Ramirez: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep these conversations alive.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Let’s continue to discuss and address these pressing issues in our society. Until next time, stay safe.