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May 23, 2025 – Mexico –
José Carlos González Herrera, a prominent Mexican journalist and social media influencer known as “El Guerrero Fénix,” was fatally shot on May 15, 2025, in downtown Acapulco, Guerrero. He was the administrator of the Facebook page El Guerrero, Opinión Ciudadana, which had over 140,000 followers and was recognized for its citizen journalism, political satire, and public accountability reporting. The attack occurred shortly after González Herrera had conducted a live broadcast, underscoring the risks faced by journalists in the region.
This incident marks the fourth journalist killed in Mexico in 2025, highlighting the escalating violence against media professionals in the country. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have condemned the murder and called for a thorough investigation to ensure justice and prevent further attacks on press freedom. The IFJ emphasized the need for the Mexican government to take immediate action to protect journalists and uphold the rule of law.
González Herrera had previously survived an assassination attempt in June 2024, when he was shot while covering a fire in Acapulco. Despite the earlier attack, he continued his work, using his platform to expose corruption and social issues affecting his community. His resilience and commitment to journalism made him a significant figure in the local media landscape.
The murder of González Herrera is part of a broader pattern of violence against journalists in Mexico, where impunity remains a significant concern. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, Mexico is among the most dangerous countries for journalists, with numerous cases of violence against the press going unresolved.
In response to the growing threats, organizations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have called for stronger protections for journalists and a commitment from the Mexican government to address the root causes of violence against the press. The RSF’s condemnation of González Herrera’s murder underscores the international community’s concern over the state of press freedom in Mexico.
José Carlos González Herrera’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in Mexico and the urgent need for effective measures to protect media professionals and uphold the principles of free expression and accountability.
Reference –
Mexican journalist José Carlos González shot dead in Acapulco
