Teacher Adriana Sáenz killed in La Roldós, Quito

On 1 July 2024, 35‑year‑old physical‑education teacher Adriana Sáenz was murdered in the La Roldós neighbourhood of north‑west Quito, Ecuador. While leaving her home at about 06:40 to go to work, two men on a motorcycle intercepted her vehicle, fired several shots and she was fatally wounded.

Sáenz was rushed to Hospital San Francisco in Carcelén, where doctors declared her dead. Police have released security‑camera footage that shows the attackers and are conducting investigations, but no suspect has been identified so far. Authorities note that she had previously obtained a protective order against an ex‑partner who was allegedly abusive, and neighbours reported that the couple had recently left the home.

The killing has shocked the local community. Neighbours described her as a kind, diligent teacher; colleagues from the University Central del Ecuador’s Faculty of Physical Education and school staff have issued condolences.