Well-known priest shot dead after officiating mass in Mexico state wracked by cartel violence

Hundreds gathered to mourn Catholic priest Marcelo Pérez, an activist for Indigenous peoples and farm laborers who was killed in Chiapas, Mexico. Pérez, a leading activist for peace in the violence-torn state, was shot dead by two gunmen after celebrating Mass. He had received threats but continued his work as a peace activist without government protection. His killing may be related to his efforts against drug cartels in Chiapas. This incident reflects the ongoing violence and challenges faced by human rights activists in Mexico. Pérez’s death is a tragic loss for the community he served for two decades.