We break down the tragic killing of Mexican environmental journalist Alex Serna, whose body was found in Zihuatanejo after reporting on corruption, illegal resource extraction, and environmental abuses. We explore what his death reveals about Mexico’s escalating danger for reporters and the systemic failures that leave journalists unprotected.

In this episode, we examine the disturbing case of Alex Serna, an environmental journalist and content creator whose body was discovered in Zihuatanejo after he went missing on June 20. Serna was known for exposing corruption tied to environmental exploitation — from illegal water extraction to questionable tree removals and pier demolitions — and had recently shared a death threat allegedly connected to the local mayor’s family. His killing marks the third journalist murdered in Mexico in less than a month, underscoring the country’s status as the most dangerous place for reporters in the Western Hemisphere. We discuss the failures of local and federal authorities, the lack of protection programs, and the broader climate of impunity that continues to endanger journalists who challenge powerful interests.

Article: https://cpj.org/2026/07/mexican-environmental-journalist-alex-serna-found-dead-in-zihuatanejo/

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