Background on Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada
Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada, a 58-year-old priest, was last seen on Saturday, October 4th, in the municipality of Cocula, Guerrero. This Mexican state has been severely affected by organized crime.
Church’s Statement and Investigation
The Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa reported the death of Father Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada, who had been missing since October 4th. The Catholic Church expressed its sorrow over the alleged homicide of the priest from San Cristóbal de Mezcala parish, a town of approximately 5,000 residents nestled in a mountain range.
The Guerrero State Attorney General’s Office initiated a criminal investigation for qualified homicide against Bertoldo “N”, whose body was found in the municipality of Eduardo Neri.
Upon learning of the incident, investigators from the Ministerial Investigative Police (PIM) and forensic experts from the Forensic Services Coordination visited the scene to process the location, conduct a body lift, and analyze evidence to gather information that could clarify the situation and identify potential suspects.
The Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa announced that Father Estrada’s body would arrive at their community this evening around 8:00 PM.
Impact on the Community
Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada’s disappearance and subsequent death have deeply affected the San Cristóbal de Mezcala community. As a respected religious figure, his absence left parishioners worried about his safety and the implications of crime in their region.
Guerrero, one of Mexico’s most crime-ridden states, has experienced heightened violence due to drug cartels. The murder of Father Estrada underscores the risks faced by clergy members and the broader population in these areas.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada? He was a 58-year-old priest serving the San Cristóbal de Mezcala parish in Guerrero, Mexico.
- When and where was he last seen? He was last seen on Saturday, October 4th, in the municipality of Cocula, Guerrero.
- What is the current status? His body was found in Eduardo Neri, and the Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa has confirmed his death.
- What is the community’s reaction? The news has deeply affected the San Cristóbal de Mezcala community, highlighting the risks faced by clergy and residents in crime-ridden regions.
- What is the investigation status? The Guerrero State Attorney General’s Office has initiated a criminal investigation for qualified homicide, and investigators are working to gather evidence and identify suspects.
