The Disappearance: A Community Mobilizes
On February 4, 2025, Mateo Santiago Ramírez Martínez disappeared after leaving Escuela Secundaria Técnica #39 in León, Guanajuato.
- Last seen at 2:00 p.m. walking home to Colonia Chapalita.
- Security footage captured him entering a dental clinic alone at the intersection of Bulevar Manuel de Austri and Calle Jalisco.
- After entering, he was never seen leaving.
That same evening, his family filed a missing person report, triggering an Amber Alert. Within hours, hundreds of volunteers mobilized, sharing his photo and conducting searches.
The next three days saw an unprecedented community effort, with teachers, neighbors, and social organizations joining the search.
Discovery of Mateo’s Body and Key Suspect
On February 7, 2025, authorities focused their investigation on the dental office where Mateo was last seen.
- A search warrant led investigators to the home of the clinic owner, identified as Christian Augusto Jafet G. V., a local dentist.
- Upon police arrival, the suspect attempted suicide by gunshot, sustaining injuries but surviving.
- Under custody, he confessed to the crime and disclosed the body’s location.
Later that afternoon, authorities found Mateo’s body in a rural area of Lagunillas, Jalisco, near the Guanajuato-Jalisco border.
- The body was partially buried in a field in Jaramillo.
- Preliminary forensic reports confirmed a gunshot wound to the head.
- The Guanajuato State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) verified Mateo’s identity through forensic analysis.
Who Is the Suspect?
The detained suspect, Christian Augusto Jafet G. V., is a licensed dentist and the owner of the clinic where Mateo was last seen.
- Authorities have not publicly released his full identity but confirmed his direct involvement.
- After his failed suicide attempt, he was hospitalized and later taken into custody.
- He now faces multiple charges, including homicide, possible sexual assault, and evidence tampering.
Official Statements and Government Response
1. Guanajuato State Prosecutor’s Office (FGE):
- Condemned the crime as “an atrocious act that will not go unpunished.”
- Collaborated with Jalisco authorities to ensure Mateo’s body was returned to his family.
2. Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo:
- Expressed deep condolences and pledged justice.
- Assured the public that the suspect will face full prosecution.
3. Community and Social Reactions:
- Hundreds of citizens gathered in León for vigils and protests demanding greater security for children.
- Mateo’s classmates held a memorial at his school, mourning the tragic loss.
Possible Motive Behind the Crime
Authorities suspect the crime was sexually motivated.
- The suspect allegedly sexually assaulted Mateo before killing him.
- Evidence and his confession suggest a premeditated act.
- Investigators are conducting further forensic tests to confirm details.
Reports indicate Mateo occasionally ran errands at the clinic, potentially explaining why he entered without hesitation.
🚨 JUSTICIA PARA MATEO 🚨
— Noticieros En Línea (@_enlinea) February 8, 2025
Mateo, de 12 años, desapareció tras salir de su secundaria. Tres días después, fue hallado sin vida en un terreno baldío. Un médico fue detenido como sospechoso. Intentó dispararse, pero sobrevivió. Confesó el crimen y ahora se le investiga. pic.twitter.com/iBQfWzHteP
Legal Process and Next Steps
The suspect faces:
- Homicide charges with potential for a life sentence.
- Possible additional charges for sexual assault and obstruction of justice.
- A high-profile trial process that will be closely monitored by human rights groups.
Authorities are reinforcing child protection measures in the wake of this case.
Justice for Mateo
Mateo’s case has shaken Guanajuato and Mexico, raising urgent concerns about:
- Children’s safety in public spaces.
- Stronger legal consequences for violent crimes against minors.
- Community involvement in search efforts.
As the judicial process unfolds, Mateo’s memory serves as a call for justice and action to prevent future tragedies.
TE PODRÍA INTERESAR