Little Antonio 'Toñito' was found lifeless inside the water tank of a neighbor who participated in his search
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The killer lived meters from the victim and feigned concern
Toñito disappeared on March 19 in the community of San Pedro Zictepec, in Tenango del Valle, State of Mexico.
He was only 9 years old and left his house to play at some nearby arcades.
Detienen al vecino y presunto asesino de toñito
That was the last time his family saw him alive. His disappearance set off alarms among neighbors and family members, who immediately began their search.
Toñito
Mario "N," a 30-year-old man who lived a few meters from the child's house, participated in the search brigade as if nothing had happened. He appeared concerned, asked questions, and pretended to collaborate, although he refused at all times to have his house searched.
The child's body was found in the suspect's water tank
On March 20, amid new suspicions, the authorities finally entered his home.
The discovery shocked the entire municipality: Toñito was dead, hidden inside a water tank on the roof.
Testimonies indicate that the alleged killer used to interact with children and appeared friendly with the neighbors.
The family and the entire community were devastated.
The community demands justice and exemplary punishment, the neighbors organized a farewell with white balloons in memory of Toñito.
Amid shouts of "children are not to be touched," they demanded justice so that this crime doesn't go unpunished.
The alleged killer was arrested, but the outrage has not ceased.
The inhabitants of Tenango del Valle have requested greater presence of the authorities and urgent measures to protect minors.
Impunity and state neglect present once again
This case once again highlights the neglect in which the state government keeps the communities.
The lack of protocols to protect children is exposed when crimes occur so close and no one acts in time.
While the administration delivers empty speeches, children continue to be victims of a system that doesn't protect them.
Toñito's case is a brutal reminder of what happens when impunity becomes a habit.
Meanwhile the authorities rehearse condolences in front of the cameras, in the neighborhoods people learn to live with fear. A silent, everyday fear that grows where the State simply is not present.
