Uruguay family seeks pardon for man who killed abusive father

In May 2025, in a suburb of Montevideo, Uruguay, Mojses Martinez shot and killed his father, Carlos Martinez, after learning about years of systemic abuse. Mojses fired 14 shots at his father and remained by the body for two days before surrendering to police.

During the trial, which was broadcast live on YouTube, details emerged regarding the extensive physical, psychological, and sexual abuse Carlos Martinez inflicted upon his wife and daughters. Sara Martinez, 27, described a pattern of terror, including being forced to stand under cold water for hours and enduring approximately 60 instances of sexual abuse. She noted that her father would often cry and offer sweets, such as alfajores, as a way to seek forgiveness after abusive episodes.

Mojses is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence. His mother and sisters, who argue that his actions were a response to the trauma inflicted by their father, are now seeking a pardon and appealing the verdict.