Journalists Killed in 2012 - Motive Unconfirmed: Víctor Manuel Báez Chino

Milenio and Reporteros Policiacos
June 13 or 14, 2012, in Xalapa, Mexico

Báez's body was recovered on the morning of June 14 near the main square in Xalapa, capital of Veracruz state. He was the editor of the crime section for the state digital edition of the national newspaper Milenio and an editor of the website Reporteros Policiacos, which also covers crime, according to Milenio.

In a televised press conference, Gina Domínguez, the state spokeswoman, said that officials had received reports that three armed men had abducted Báez at 11:30 the night before. She also indicated that an organized crime cartel was responsible for the murder. News accounts reported that five days later, the state attorney general's office published a statement that said a note had been found with the journalist's body that referenced the violent Zeta cartel. The note said: "This is what happens to traitors and those who act smart. Sincerely, the Zetas."

National Attorney General Marisela Morales told reporters she had dispatched federal investigators to probe the murder, and said they would look into the possible involvement of state officials, among other lines of investigation. Neither Morales nor Domínguez offered any further details about a possible motive.

Motive Unconfirmed: CPJ is investigating to determine whether the death was work-related.