A Catholic priest was murdered in Mexico, prompting calls for a thorough investigation. Father Marcelo Pérez, a 50-year-old priest from the Diocese of San Cristóbal de las Casas, was shot and killed after celebrating Mass on October 20, 2024.
Pérez was known for his advocacy work in defense of Indigenous people’s rights and had received threats for his activism.
The Mexican Bishops’ Conference condemned the murder, demanding an exhaustive and transparent investigation to bring those responsible to justice. Similarly, Pope Francis mourned Pérez’s death, describing him as “a zealous servant of the Gospel and God’s faithful people”.
This incident shows the ongoing violence against clergy in Mexico, with 80 priests murdered over the last three decades.
The country’s high levels of crime and impunity contribute to the risks faced by priests and other religious leaders.
Father Marcelo Pérez was a Tzotzil Indigenous person who served the community in Chiapas for over two decades.
Authorities have initiated an investigation, with the governor of Chiapas assuring that those guilty will face justice.