On May 15, 2025, Mexican influencer José Carlos González Herrera, known on social networks as “El Fénix”, was shot and killed in downtown Acapulco, Guerrero.
This tragic event has generated commotion both in Mexico and among the Hispanic community in the United States, especially due to the growing number of attacks against content creators committed to social and political denunciation.
Who was “The Fénix”?
José Carlos González Herrera, 39, was widely known for his work as a content creator on the Facebook page “El Guerrero, Opinión Ciudadana“, where he accumulated more than 142,000 followers.
He wore a wrestler’s mask to maintain his anonymity and focused his content on social and political criticism, addressing issues such as corruption, insecurity and impunity in Mexico.
His direct and confrontational style earned him both followers and detractors.
In 2023, he had already been the victim of an attack while doing a live broadcast, where he was wounded in both arms. Despite the threats, he continued his denunciation work.
Details of the murder
The attack occurred around 7:40 p.m. on May 15, when “El Fénix” was leaving an interview in downtown Acapulco.
He was intercepted by armed subjects who shot him multiple times in front of a pharmacy.
The assailants fled the scene without being identified.
Local authorities have initiated an investigation to clarify the facts and determine the motive of the crime.
So far, no arrests have been reported in connection with the case.
Reactions and context
The murder of “El Fénix” adds to a series of recent attacks against influencers and journalists in Mexico.
Days earlier, influencer Valeria Márquez was murdered during a live broadcast in Zapopan, Jalisco.
These events have raised alarm bells about the security of content creators in the country.
Freedom of expression organizations have condemned these acts of violence and have demanded that Mexican authorities guarantee the safety of communicators and content creators.
This crime is added to that of the TikToker Valeria Márquez who was killed in the middle of a live broadcast at her beauty salon
Violence does not stop
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For Hispanics living in the United States, especially those who follow the situation in Mexico closely, these events highlight the risks faced by those who dare to speak out against injustice and corruption.
Violence against content creators not only affects the direct victims, but also has a chilling effect on freedom of expression in the region.
It is critical that the international community, including Hispanics in the U.S., stay informed and support initiatives that promote security and freedom of expression in Mexico and other Latin American countries.
The murder of José Carlos González Herrera, “El Fénix”, is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by those who fight for justice and transparency in contexts of high violence and impunity.
His legacy as a critical voice on social media will live on, and his death should serve as a call to action to protect those who, from different platforms, seek positive change in society.
Find out more at QueOnnda.com.
