Mexican journalist Francisco Leyva killed in Oaxaca, sixth or seventh in 2026

Francisco Alejandro Leyva Aguilar, a columnist and former director of Oaxaca state television, was assassinated while having breakfast on July 22, 2026, in San Pablo Etla, Oaxaca. The attack has drawn condemnation from press freedom groups and political figures, and the federal government has taken over the investigation.

The attack

Leyva Aguilar was shot multiple times at a food stall near his home, with reports indicating three gunshot wounds to the head and neck Source: Milenio. He died at the scene. Authorities have detained one person but not confirmed their involvement, and a motorcycle believed used by the assailants was found abandoned Source: Milenio.

Reactions and investigation

The Fiscalía General de la República (FGR) has exercised its power to attract the investigation, with the Fiscalía Especializada en Delitos contra la Libertad de Expresión (FEADLE) leading the case Source: Excélsior. Governor Salomón Jara condemned the murder, calling Leyva a "critical journalist" and pledging a transparent investigation Source: ABC. The Inter American Press Association (SIP) condemned the killing, calling it evidence of "extreme vulnerability" for journalists in Mexico Source: Hoy. Meanwhile, PRI leader Alejandro Moreno accused the ruling Morena party of consolidating a "narco-state" Source: Infobae.

Broader context

Leyva Aguilar was the author of the column "El Zumbido del Moscardón", critical of state politics and security. He had previously reported threats Source: La Voz. His death adds to a grim tally: some organizations count six journalists killed in Mexico in 2026, others seven [Sources: Hoy; ABC]. Journalists’ groups stress the need for an independent investigation and better protections.