A young girl identified as Perla Alison was reported missing after she left her home in the Santa Martha Acatitla neighborhood to visit a nearby shop.
Family members said she asked for permission to buy candy but never came back, which immediately raised alarm and led to a nationwide Amber Alert being activated. Authorities, along with local volunteers, began an extensive search operation across the area.
Days later, the case took a tragic turn when a body was discovered in a vacant lot close to the Constitución de 1917 Metro station.
A resident had contacted emergency services after noticing a strong odor coming from an abandoned structure. Police from the Secretariat of Citizen Security secured the location, and forensic teams later arrived to carry out the recovery of the remains.
Officials from the Mexico City Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that signs of violence were present on the body and classified the case as a femicide investigation. Authorities stated that early findings suggest the possibility that the child may have suffered abuse prior to her death, although the official cause will depend on autopsy results and ongoing forensic analysis.
The news spread quickly and triggered widespread outrage across social media, where the disappearance had already gained significant attention during the search efforts. Community groups and activists have since demanded justice and stronger action against violence involving minors, calling for accountability and a thorough investigation.
The girl’s father, Francisco Rojas, spoke briefly to the media, expressing the family’s grief and calling for justice. He said the family was devastated and urged authorities to ensure the case does not go unresolved.
Mexico City’s head of government, Clara Brugada, also reacted publicly, expressing sorrow over the incident and stating that authorities would strengthen efforts to address violent crime and prevent similar cases in the future.
Meanwhile, investigators continue reviewing security camera footage from the surrounding area. Cybercrime units have also been asked to assist in tracking possible leads that could help identify those responsible.
In the neighborhood, residents, relatives, and classmates held a candlelight vigil in memory of Perla Alison, leaving flowers and drawings outside her home as a gesture of mourning and solidarity.
The case adds to ongoing concerns in Mexico about disappearances and violence affecting minors, highlighting once again the urgency of stronger protection measures and more effective justice responses.