Chicago Family Members Killed, Teen in Critical Condition After Shooting in Mexico
Tragedy Strikes during Holiday Visit
Several members of a Chicago family were shot, one fatally, while visiting family in Mexico over the holidays, reports say.
A Devastating Attack
A 14-year-old boy is in critical condition and his father and uncle were killed in the attack, according to NBC5. Vicente Peña Jr., 38, and Antonio “Tony” Fernandez, 44, and Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre were all fatally shot.
Boy in Medically Induced Coma
The boy was placed in a medically induced coma.
Family’s Heartbreak
“I feel very devastated because they wiped out my entire family,” Vicente Peña, father of Vicente Peña Jr. and grandfather of the injured teenager, told NBC5.
U.S. State Department Confirms Fatalities
The U.S. State Department confirmed to the Sun-Times the deaths of two U.S. citizens and the injury of a minor in Santiago Papasquiaro, Durango, Mexico. A department spokesperson offered condolences to the family and confirmed the department is in touch with the families of the victims but had no further comment.
Shooting Occurred while Driving
Authorities said the group was driving in an SUV with Illinois plates when the shooting happened.
Graphic Details of the Attack
“It was a massacre… because my son was shot four times in the head and once in the shoulder, and the other boy was also shot four times, once in the shoulder, and the other boy who was with them was also shot three times,” Peña said in Spanish.
Family’s Plea for Medical Care
The family is seeking to bring the boy back to the U.S. for medical care, but doctors said he’s too fragile to travel. Peña Jr. and Fernandez are set to be buried in Chicago in a few weeks.
Increased Crime Rates in Durango
Durango has seen increased rates of crime recently, according to local authorities. The State Department warns American travelers the area has a level 2 “exercise increased caution” travel advisory due to crime.
Conclusion
The shooting of the Chicago family in Mexico is a devastating reminder of the dangers that exist in some parts of the world. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of those affected by this tragedy.
FAQs
What happened to the Chicago family?
Several members of a Chicago family were shot, one fatally, while visiting family in Mexico over the holidays.
Who were the victims?
Vicente Peña Jr., 38, Antonio “Tony” Fernandez, 44, and Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre were all fatally shot. A 14-year-old boy is in critical condition.
What is the U.S. State Department doing to help the family?
The U.S. State Department has confirmed the deaths of two U.S. citizens and the injury of a minor and is in touch with the families of the victims.
