Diana Sánchez Barrios, leader of street vendors in the Historic Center and local deputy of Mexico City, was shot on October 17 in that area of the capital. In the incident, she was hit by five bullets that caused her serious injuries, undergoing seven surgeries since then. One of the shots even perforated her jaw and severely affected one of her lungs, among other injuries.
In a statement to Milenio, Sánchez Barrios identified the assailant as a relative of her cousins Claudia and Ericka, whom she pointed out as the instigators of the attack. According to her, the disagreements with her cousins had escalated to the point of receiving threats and extortion prior to the attack. Three people have been arrested in connection with the case, which gives hope to the deputy that justice will be served.
During the attack, one of Sánchez Barrios' companions was killed, while another later died in the hospital due to their injuries. The deputy expressed that the attack would not intimidate her, reaffirming her commitment to the struggle for fair and prosperous trade in public spaces. In subsequent interviews, she has expressed her determination to support workers seeking a more dignified life.
