After four days of intense searching, authorities confirmed the death of 12-year-old Santiago Mateo in Guanajuato, Mexico. The boy, who had been reported missing on February 4, 2025, was found in the community of Lagunillas, near the borders of León, Guanajuato, and Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco.
Authorities revealed that Mateo was abducted, assaulted, and murdered, and that the suspect tried to hide his body.
How the Disappearance Unfolded
Mateo was last seen leaving school on Tuesday, February 4, at approximately 2:00 PM from Escuela Secundaria Técnica 39 in the Las Mandatarias neighborhood.
Surveillance footage captured him at 2:20 PM, walking toward his home in Chapalita.
🔹 Last known details:
✔️ Wore sports pants and a shirt
✔️ Carried a backpack
✔️ Seen near Los Laureles kindergarten
During his route, he was reportedly approached by a man identified as a medical professional.
Community Mobilization and Search Efforts
Once Santiago Mateo was declared missing, the Amber Alert was activated.
🚨 Search efforts included:
✔️ Family, neighbors, and school staff forming search brigades
✔️ Posters and flyers distributed across multiple neighborhoods
✔️ Candlelit marches through Bulevar Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra and surrounding areas
Despite these efforts, the search ended in tragedy when his body was found on February 7.
Suspect Arrested, Investigation Continues
Authorities confirmed that a suspect has been detained, directly linked to the abduction and murder of Santiago Mateo.
🚔 Current status of the investigation:
✔️ One individual in custody
✔️ A second suspect identified
✔️ Further details to be released by authorities
The Attorney General’s Office of Guanajuato reported that investigations are ongoing and more arrests could follow.
Governor of Guanajuato Pledges Justice
Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo condemned the crime and vowed that there would be no impunity.
«There are no words to ease this pain, but Santiago Mateo’s family is not alone. We will provide full support during this difficult time.»
The governor also assured that authorities will ensure justice is served swiftly, as the public demands accountability.
Calls for Increased Child Protection Measures
The murder of Santiago Mateo has sparked widespread outrage, with demands for greater security and child protection policies.
👥 Key concerns raised by the public:
✔️ Need for stronger security in school zones
✔️ Calls for tougher penalties for child predators
✔️ More investment in public surveillance systems
Officials have acknowledged that systemic improvements are necessary to prevent further tragedies.
A Nation Demands Justice
The loss of Santiago Mateo has left a community in mourning, and the public is closely following the investigation and legal proceedings.Authorities have pledged full transparency as they move forward with prosecutions and potential policy changes aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
