A leader of Mexican folk saint cult ‘La Santa Muerte’ is killed at an altar to the skeletal figure

A local leader of the Mexican folk saint cult “La Santa Muerte” was tragically gunned down at an altar dedicated to the skeletal figure in the city of Leon, Guanajuato state. Two others were killed and eight were injured in the attack. The saint, often worshipped by those facing difficulties in life, is depicted as a female skeleton and is believed to protect her followers from death. Despite this belief, the leader of the cult in Guanajuato, known as “La Madrina Chayo,” was fatally shot. The Santa Muerte is honored on Nov. 1 and 2, and has been criticized by Roman Catholic leaders in Mexico for its association with violence and the drug trade. Despite its dark reputation, the annual celebrations are friendly and involve giving small gifts to fellow worshippers. The state of Guanajuato has seen high levels of violence due to conflicts between drug cartels.