Amidst unease, Temoac mayor Valentín Lavín, who was assassinated, is farewelled; 'He started working well, but then decomposed,' say neighbors

Temoac is enveloped in an atmosphere of unease as the community mourns the assassination of Mayor Valentín Lavín Romero, who was shot and killed on Wednesday afternoon. His family, friends, and close collaborators spoke sparingly of "justice," with few openly echoing the demand. Lavín Romero, known as "El Gallo," was laid to rest in the street, surrounded by floral arrangements, though notably absent were any from his regional political peers or his own PVEM party.

The mayor's final public appearance was just steps from where he was ambushed by two men on a motorcycle. A collaborator recounted Lavín Romero's trajectory, from his work as a driver to his political career, which led him to win the Temoac municipal presidency twice. Temoac is a leading municipality in amaranth production.

A local merchant shared with the press that Lavín Romero "was a good man" and recalled the large crowds that supported him during his campaign. "He started working well but then decomposed; the majority of the town knew it," the merchant added, reflecting a sentiment of disillusionment among some residents.

Valentín Lavín Romero was set to celebrate his 40th birthday on August 7. His death leaves his wife and two children grieving. The Fiscalía de Morelos is investigating the case, with reports suggesting a connection to the homicide of Samir Flores.