The body of journalist and environmental advocate Abisaí Pérez Romero was found in the municipality of Tula, in Hidalgo, Mexico. The case has drawn attention as one of the most troubling events affecting press freedom and environmental rights advocacy in the region in recent years.
A statement released by the Autonomous University of Mexico City (UACM) confirmed the discovery and expressed deep sorrow. The university noted that Pérez Romero was a student in the Communication and Culture program at its training center and described him as a dedicated voice for human and environmental rights. The university added that his body was located on February 14 in Hidalgo and pledged to cooperate with authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding his death.
Pérez Romero actively contributed to the Atlas of Environmental Justice and participated in the university’s social work program focusing on documenting socio-environmental conflicts. He had recently been analyzing and criticizing the environmental impacts of projects such as the Emisor Oriente Tunnel in the Mezquital Valley, the Regional Landfill in the Dendhó Community, and the Atotonilco Wastewater Treatment Plant, among others. The university praised his commitment and asked for transparency in the investigation.
The organization Article 19 joined in the response, lamenting the disappearance and subsequent killing of the journalist and community defender. It noted that Pérez Romero had disappeared on February 12 and that his body was found the following day. Article 19 highlighted his documented work on social networks through the YouTube channel El Perromero, as well as involvement with Son Politikón_FM. The organization called on the Hidalgo State Attorney General to conduct a prompt, impartial, and thorough investigation following the appropriate protocol for crimes against freedom of expression and to determine the motives behind the crime. The group urged authorities to ensure justice, truth, and remembrance for the journalist and his associates.
Article 19 also urged the Mexican Government’s Victim Attention Enforcement Commission (CEAV) to provide comprehensive support to those close to Pérez Romero and to help them navigate the process of seeking justice. The NGO stressed that the ongoing disappearance and killing of journalists and activists in the region requires urgent preventive measures. At this time, it has not been established that Pérez Romero’s death was directly related to his journalistic work.
In 2022, Mexico was flagged by international observers as a dangerous environment for the press. Reports indicated that a significant share of the world’s journalist killings occurred in the country. The organization noted that since 2000, a substantial number of journalists have lost their lives in Mexico, with a notable portion occurring during the current administration. These statistics underscore ongoing concerns about safety, impunity, and the protection of reporters and human rights defenders.
Justice updates and ongoing concerns
Official statements from Hidalgo Justice confirmed the journalist’s death, though initial details about the case drew questions. The autopsy reportedly found a hematoma linked to facial trauma from a fall, a finding that has been reported in transmission of case notes. Authorities have not publicly released further particulars about the incident, leaving many questions about the sequence of events and the potential connections to Pérez Romero’s professional work unresolved.
As investigations continue, commentators and rights groups emphasize the need for a thorough examination of all possible angles. The aim is to ensure accountability, establish any possible motives, and safeguard the safety of reporters, environmental advocates, and community organizers who bring sensitive issues to light. The broader context remains one of concern for press freedom and human rights in the region, with calls for robust protections and transparent, timely updates from authorities.