The lifeless bodies of Jesús Ociel Baena and their partner, Dorian Daniel Nieves, were discovered at their residence in the central city of Aguascalientes on Monday. Alarming evidence emerged as a razor blade was found at the scene, raising suspicions of foul play. Authorities found no indication of a third party’s presence.
Investigations have taken a grim turn as officials now suspect that Baena met their tragic demise at the hands of Nieves, who subsequently took their own life. Aguascalientes chief prosecutor, Jesús Figueroa, revealed that Baena’s lifeless body bore 20 wounds, with a neck injury believed to be the likely cause of death. Forensic analysis has suggested that Nieves wielded the murder weapon, though the investigation remains ongoing, and conclusive findings have not been reached.
Baena’s family vehemently disputes the authorities’ hypothesis. Juan Baena, their father, expressed his concern, stating, “It would be a shame to let this justice system make a judgment that is not correct and that the majority do not believe in.” Human rights organizations are urging authorities to delve into the possibility of these deaths being categorized as hate crimes, citing death threats previously received by Baena.
Jesús Ociel Baena, aged 38, made history in October 2022 by assuming the role of a magistrate for the Aguascalientes state electoral court, becoming the first non-binary individual in Latin America to hold such a judicial position. In June, they were among the inaugural recipients of gender-neutral passports.
Baena’s mission revolved around championing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, who had steadfastly supported them throughout their journey, ultimately conveying a powerful message of inclusivity and equality within our state and nation. Fellow magistrate Laura Hortensia Llama paid tribute to Baena at the Aguascalientes electoral court headquarters, saying, “We will never forget Baena’s essence, persistence, and desire to achieve a better world.”
This sentiment reverberated among the thousands who attended vigils and demonstrations in various cities, including the capital, to honor the memory of the slain activist on Monday evening.
Humberto Dena, 24, speaking in Mexico City, emphasized Baena’s pivotal role in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ human rights, saying, “Ociel is, and was, the most relevant figure in today’s fight for human rights for the LGBTQ+ community. We want the authorities to continue to investigate this case, and not just label it as a ‘crime of passion’.”