14‑year‑old girl killed and grandmother wounded in La Matanza shooting

On 2 July a 14‑year‑old girl, Candela Abigail Urquiza, was shot dead and her 50‑year‑old grandmother, Blanca Urquiza, was seriously injured during a gunfight between rival groups in Villa Dorrego, La Matanza, Buenos Aires province. The exchange of fire occurred in front of the victims’ home on the corner of Dupuy and Atalaya. Police say the victims were not involved in the conflict and were hit by stray bullets.

Investigators have opened a homicide case, identified four possible participants in the armed clash and have conducted raids in the area. Emergency services treated the victims at Hospital Simplemente Evita; Candela was pronounced dead on arrival while Blanca remains in critical condition after surgery. The incident has intensified local concerns about gang‑related violence in the Greater Buenos Aires conurbation.