Environmental Activist Alex Serna Found Deceased After Disappearance in Zihuatanejo
The body of environmental activist Alex Serna was discovered in Zihuatanejo following a 12-day disappearance. Known for his vocal criticism of local environmental and political issues, his death, which displayed signs of torture, has sparked urgent demands for a full investigation into the case.
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1 MIN READ- Environmental activist Alex Serna found dead after 12-day disappearance in Zihuatanejo.
- The victim’s remains showed signs of torture, according to forensic reports.
- Serna was known for challenging local government and exposing unauthorized industrial water usage.
- State human rights officials are calling for a thorough investigation into the killing.
The tragic disappearance of Alex Serna, a dedicated environmental activist and communicator, has come to a somber conclusion. After nearly 12 days of uncertainty, his life was cut short, with his remains discovered in the Zihuatanejo area of Guerrero. The State Human Rights Commission has officially confirmed the passing of the activist, who was known for his vocal stance against local environmental degradation and political mismanagement.
Investigation into the Death of Alex Serna
Alex Serna, legally identified as Manuel Alejandro Moreno Serna, was reported missing on June 20, 2026. According to preliminary reports, his body was found showing signs of severe torture. The discovery took place within the facilities of the Forensic Medical Service (Semefo) in Zihuatanejo. While the human rights authorities have issued condolences to the grieving family, official confirmation from the state prosecutor’s office remains pending, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding this violent act are ongoing.
Before his disappearance, Alex Serna had been actively using his platform to expose environmental harm. In his final public video, he highlighted concerns regarding a mango dehydration plant owned by a foreign entrepreneur, Frank Thomas Cruz. He alleged that the facility had been operating since 2017 without proper environmental permits and was utilizing water resources without authorization from the National Water Commission (Conagua). His work frequently focused on critical ecological issues, including illegal land-use changes, the destruction of local wetlands, and the preservation of mangroves in the region.
Beyond his environmental advocacy, Alex Serna was recognized for his critical perspective on local governance in Zihuatanejo. He frequently voiced concerns regarding the long-standing political influence of the Sánchez-Tapia family, including former mayor Jorge Sánchez Allec and the current mayor, Lisette Tapia Castro. He accused the administration of monopolizing water distribution to prioritize business interests over the needs of the community. As an influential voice in the region, his sudden death has prompted urgent calls for authorities across all levels of government to conduct a diligent and transparent investigation into the tragedy.
