Aranza Shot and Killed in Matamoros
A seven-year-old U.S. citizen named Aranza was shot and killed during a police operation targeting drug crime in Matamoros, nos.nl reported. The incident occurred in the Mexican border city adjacent to Texas, where law enforcement opened fire from a helicopter.
Parts of the city had experienced unrest for days following the arrest of a local drug criminal. Armed men blocked roads in protest of the arrest, prompting police to clear the blockades.
Officers return ground fire as family's car comes under helicopter pursuit
Justice officials stated that agents in helicopters were shot at from the ground during the operation and returned fire, according to nos.nl. The victim was sitting inside a car when she was struck in the head and fatally wounded, upday News reported.
The victim’s mother told Mexican media that her family was inside a vehicle when a police helicopter began pursuing them. Her husband stepped out of the car to signal that they were civilians traveling with children, but shots were fired regardless, nos.nl reported.
Ongoing Investigation in Tamaulipas
State prosecutors in Tamaulipas confirmed that the officers involved in the helicopter operation have not been detained, though an official investigation is underway, upday News reported.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the shooting take place?
The incident occurred in Matamoros, a Mexican city situated along the border with Texas.
What was the nationality of the victim?
The seven-year-old girl held United States citizenship.
Have the police officers involved been arrested?
No arrests have been made, but justice authorities in the state of Tamaulipas have opened an investigation into the officers involved.