Irapuato protests demand justice for 7‑year‑old Valentina's killing

Around a hundred residents of Irapuato gathered on 6 June for a peaceful march calling for justice after 7‑year‑old Valentina was killed in an armed attack on 24 May in the 18 de Agosto neighbourhood. Participants carried white balloons, wore shirts with slogans such as “Justicia para Vale” and “Valentina, tu voz brilla”, and marched from Parque Irekua along Avenida Guerrero and Avenida Revolución to the Santuario de Guadalupe, where Bishop Enrique Díaz Díaz presided over a mass.

Valentina died as a collateral victim of the shooting that also injured two other children. Authorities have detained one suspect, who faces homicide and attempted homicide charges, while the judicial process continues. The protestors demanded an end to impunity, greater security for children, and a swift resolution of the case, echoing broader concerns about violence affecting minors in the city.

The bishop’s homily urged the community to seek justice for Valentina and to turn to faith to curb the violence that plagues Irapuato and the nation.