Mexico’s security cabinet is actively investigating the tragic murder of 23-year-old beauty influencer Valeria Marquez, who was shot as she livestreamed a video on TikTok. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that authorities are treating the case as a potential femicide, which refers to the murder of women or girls due to their gender. This killing has alarmed many across Mexico, where violence against women is a pressing issue.
Marquez was killed in a beauty salon in Zapopan by an assailant who entered and opened fire. Leading up to the incident, she was seen on the livestream expressing anxiety about a stranger arriving at the salon with an expensive gift meant for her. The harrowing circumstances were captured just moments before her death, with her last words, “They’re coming,” ringing in the hearts of those who witnessed her live stream. The prosecutor’s office in Jalisco has yet to identify any suspects, and investigations are ongoing.
President Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of finding those responsible and expressed condolences to Marquez’s family during her morning press conference. She noted that Mexico has some of the highest rates of femicide in Latin America, with the United Nations reporting a rate of 1.3 femicides per 100,000 women in 2023, making it a national crisis.
In a broader context, Jalisco ranks sixth among Mexico’s states for homicides with a considerable number reported since President Sheinbaum took office. The national government is prioritizing this investigation, showcasing a commitment to addressing the underlying issues of gender-based violence in the country.
This incident not only highlights the immediate need for justice in Marquez’s case but also calls attention to the pervasive violence against women in Mexico, reminding society that collective action is crucial in combatting such deeply rooted issues.
This tragic event may serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to ensure the safety of women in Mexico, fostering a dialogue on prevention and justice in an environment where incidents of gender-based violence are unfortunately common. The hope lies in the response and actions that follow Marquez’s tragic death, perhaps igniting significant cultural change and policy reform.
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