Chicago Teen in Coma After Family Tragedy in Mexico: Seeking Justice and Answers
A Chicago teenager’s birthday trip to Mexico took a tragic turn when he and multiple family members were shot along a roadside in the state of Durango. Vicente Peña Jr., 38, and Antonio “Tony” Fernandez, 44, both from Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, lost their lives in the attack, along with 22-year-old Jorge Eduardo Vargas Aguirre, as confirmed by authorities.
The teen, whose identity remains undisclosed, traveled to Mexico with his father and uncle to celebrate his 14th birthday when the shooting occurred near Las Palmas. The incident left the teenager critically injured and in a medically-induced coma, raising questions about the escalating violence in the area.
Desperate Pleas for Justice and Medical Care
Vicente Peña, the father of Vicente Peña Jr. and the grandfather of the injured teen, expressed devastation over the loss of his family members. He described the shooting as a massacre, detailing the multiple gunshot wounds suffered by his loved ones during the attack. The family is seeking answers on the circumstances of the incident and the identities of those responsible.
Relatives have urged for the injured teenager to be transferred to the U.S. for specialized medical treatment, but doctors in Mexico have advised against it due to his fragile condition. The teen’s maternal grandmother, Maria Elena Hernandez, appealed for justice and highlighted his promising future as a dedicated student and boxer. The family’s struggles have been compounded by a fraudulent account circulating in the media, prompting warnings from non-profit organizations.
Community Support and Burial Plans
United Giving Hope, a non-profit group, has stepped in to assist the family in their efforts to bring the injured teenager back to the U.S. for care. Julie Contreras from United Giving Hope cautioned the public about fraudulent schemes misusing the family’s name for personal gain. Meanwhile, relatives are working towards arranging a proper burial for Peña Jr. and Fernandez in Chicago within the next two weeks, emphasizing the importance of honoring their memory.
As the devastated family continues to seek justice, support, and closure in the wake of the tragic incident, the community stands in solidarity with them during this challenging time. The road to recovery and healing remains uncertain, but the unwavering resilience and determination of the family reflect their enduring hope for a brighter future beyond the shadows of sorrow and loss.
