AMBASSADOR GARZA DEPLORES MURDER OF MEXICAN JOURNALIST

Mexico City, June 23, 2004 – "We deplore the murder of Zeta editor Francisco Javier Ortiz Franco yesterday in Tijuana,” said U.S. Ambassador Tony Garza. "I extend my deepest sympathy to his family and colleagues for their loss. "

"Mr. Ortiz Franco’s name is added to a long list of journalists who have given their lives in pursuit of their profession. Crimes like this cannot go unpunished. A free and vigorous press is indispensable to the democratic process, and must be defended,” said Ambassador Garza.

Ortiz Franco was fatally shot in his car on June 22, as his two young children looked on, on a Tijuana street.