Mexico sees surge of journalist murders in 2026

At least six journalists were killed in Mexico during the summer of 2026, highlighting a sharp rise in violence against the press. The victims include: - Juan David Gámez, director of the news portal Táctica SS, shot dead on March 18 while riding his motorcycle in García, Nuevo León. - Roxana Berenice Guzmán, founder of the Facebook page Pulso Informativo del Sureste, disappeared on June 2 in Veracruz and her remains were recovered weeks later. - Luis Ángel López, a reporter for Diario Vanguardia and director of Reportaje Policiaco Veracruzano, murdered on June 11 in Poza Rica, Veracruz. - Manuel Alejandro Moreno Serna ("Alex Serna"), an independent environmental journalist, abducted on June 20 in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero; his death was confirmed on July 3. - Josué Martínez Contreras, director of the digital outlet Noticias San Martín Texmelucan, shot dead on July 16 near his home in Puebla. - Francisco Alejandro Leyva Aguilar, political columnist and broadcaster, killed on July 22 while eating breakfast in San Pablo Etla, Oaxaca.

These killings occurred against a backdrop of ongoing threats, disappearances and impunity for media workers in the country. International watchdogs such as Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists have repeatedly warned that Mexico ranks among the most dangerous nations for journalists, citing the 2026 World Press Freedom Index’s low regional standing. The pattern of attacks underscores persistent challenges to freedom of expression and the rule of law in Mexico.