A man in Mexico is facing charges after he allegedly stole a minivan and drove into a group of pro-lifers at a prayer vigil, injuring 16.
The man is said to have stolen the vehicle on October 26 near the Guadalajara cathedral in Jalisco. He then drove it into an atrium in front of the church, where people were gathered to start a prayer vigil following a pro-life march they had taken through the streets for Pro Women and Life Day. Children were among the 16 people injured, including a 14-year-old girl who was pinned under the wheel and only freed when bystanders lifted the SUV off of her.
According to Mexico News Daily, the man, in his 30s, was said to be under the influence of drugs. Authorities are investigating whether or not this was a planned attack on the pro-lifers.
“We ask for transparency and speed in this investigation. We urge authorities to carry out a transparent and diligent investigation. … Citizens deserve clarity and respect, certainty about what happened,” said Jaime Cedillo, president of the National Front for the Family, which organized the pro-life event.
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“… It’s essential that steps are taken to compensate the victims and all their families for all the physical, emotional and material damage they suffered. Compensation is a matter of justice and respect for those affected here, at the doors of the cathedral,” he added.
Cardinal Francisco Robles, the archbishop of Guadalajara, offered prayers for those injured. “I pray to God and the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Zapopan, for their speedy and complete recovery, as well as for consolation and strength for their families in these difficult moments,” the cardinal said, adding that he hopes “that the corresponding authorities will follow up on this case to determine all the circumstances of what happened.”
Véronica Delgadillo, mayor of Guadalajara, announced that none of the victims were critically injured. “Thankfully everyone is stable and we’ve been in touch with their families,” she said.
