Crime scene where the four American travelers were initially fired upon and kidnapped. (Photo Credit: Associated Press)
Today, officials announced that two of the four travelers involved in the Mexico kidnappings on Friday are alive, have been rescued, and returned to America. The rescue comes after a days-long joint-search effort between American and Mexican law enforcement agencies.
The survivors have been identified as Latavia McGee and Eric James Williams. On Tuesday morning, McGee and Williams were found together in a cabin near Matamoros. There it was discovered that Williams had suffered a gunshot wound to the leg.
The two other American travelers, now identified as Shaeed Woodard and Zindell Brown, were found dead. Their bodies will be transported back to the United States on Tuesday.
On Friday, the four travelers entered Mexico through the Texas border in a white minivan. Representatives from the U.S. embassy stated, “Shortly after crossing into Mexico, unidentified gunmen shot the passengers of the vehicle.” In the crossfire, a bystander was also killed.
The passengers, still alive, were then kidnapped. Then, kidnappers sent the victims to multiple locations, including a health clinic, to scatter and confuse rescue efforts.
Officials Respond to the Mexico Kidnappings
In a press conference on Tuesday, Karine Jean-Pierre, Whitehouse Press Secretary, stated, “These sorts of attacks are unacceptable. Our thoughts are with the families of these individuals, and we will continue to coordinate with Mexico and push them to bring those responsible to justice.”
President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, announced on Tuesday the arrest of one individual associated with the murders. The individual has been identified as Jose N., who was found guarding the victims in the house where they were being held.
López Obrador stated his determination to see those responsible bought to justice, saying, “Those responsible will be found and they are going to be punished.”
According to the U.S. embassy in Mexico, the FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information linked to those involved in the Mexico kidnappings. Any information can be sent to the FBI’s San Antonio division (210-225-6741).
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