Mexico City prosecutors are working to downplay the case of a suspected serial killer who kept women’s bones and a saw in his room. The remains of six women were found in the suspect’s rented room, although reports of 20 women being involved are considered unfounded. The killer supposedly targeted women over more than a decade, with only three of the crimes occurring during the current administration which began in late 2018. Reports claim the crimes all took place in 2023 and 2024, but the prosecutor has refuted these claims, stating that the killer showed no signs of violent behavior in his daily life. The suspect, known only as Miguel under Mexican law, was apprehended after breaking into a neighbor’s apartment and being interrupted while attempting to kill his seventh victim.
Investigators discovered bloodstains, bones, cellphones, a saw, and missing women’s ID cards in the suspect’s rented rooms, along with other biological material. It was reported that five ID cards belonged to women who have been located alive, but the total number of missing or deceased women associated with the suspect was not provided. The suspect worked as a chemist and was found to have a series of notebooks that may contain details of his crimes. The prosecutor emphasized that Mexico City authorities do investigate missing women’s cases, and the number of reported women’s killings has decreased. However, despite efforts to address these crimes, the suspect was not captured until his seventh murder attempt last week, where he was caught fleeing the scene.
Prosecutors in Mexico City have been criticized for failing to prevent killers until the cases become severe, resulting in multiple deaths. Lack of funding, training, and professionalism have hindered investigations, allowing serial killers to operate for extended periods. Past cases, such as one in 2021 where 19 bodies were found buried at a suspect’s home in a Mexico City suburb, reveal the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Another case in 2018 involved a serial killer dumping the bodies of his victims in vacant lots and being apprehended only after pushing a dismembered body down the street in a baby carriage. These incidents underscore the need for improved resources and strategies to address serial killers earlier in their criminal activities.
The suspect in the recent case was held over for trial on charges of murder and attempted murder in relation to his latest victims. The authorities found the suspect due to his proximity to the crime scene and the testimony of a surviving witness to the crime. This prompt response led to the suspect’s arrest and paved the way for legal proceedings. Law enforcement agencies must continue working to improve their methods and collaborate effectively to identify and capture serial killers before their crimes escalate. By addressing the root causes of violence against women and enhancing investigative procedures, authorities can prevent similar cases from occurring in the future and ensure justice for victims and their families.
