Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Mexico City (Agenzia Fides) - On Friday, May 2, Fr. Julio Cesar Mendoza Acuña, 33 year-old Pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Mexico City, was killed by two unidentified hitmen, according to a report from “Agencia Siame,” of the Archdiocese of Mexico City.
According to information from the General Justice Attorney of the Federal District, two people entered the church after dark and bound Fr. Mendoza, who was inspecting the parish. They later took him and severely beat him inside the front door of his parish residence, located in a neighborhood in south Mexico City. The priest was found by another priest from the same parish, Fr. Francisco Guzman Carreon, who was surprised not to find Fr. Julio in the church, as he was almost always there. After searching the entire three-story building, he found him on the floor in his apartment, heavily bleeding. He was immediately taken to the hospital, where he died shortly after his arrival.
Authorities have already indicated that they are taking necessary measures to bring those responsible to justice. Until now, the motive of the attack is unknown, however robbery appears to be out of the question, as no objects were found missing from the church. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 5/5/2008; righe 17, parole 202)
