Keyboardist and family murdered wife child and nanny
A tragic homicide unfolded in Mexico City, striking a musician and his family in a devastating act of violence. Jonathan Meléndez, the keyboardist for the synth-pop/indie rock band Camilo Séptimo, was found murdered, alongside his wife, their young daughter, a nanny, and their family dog.
The grim discovery took place on Tuesday (September 1) at their home in the Atizapán de Zaragoza municipality. The scene revealed a profound loss, as the bodies included Meléndez, his wife, 35-year-old Ana Paula Meléndez, who was four months pregnant, and 21-year-old Aleida Romero Victorio, who had worked for the couple as a nanny.
The attack was brutal. Among the victims, the three-year-old daughter and one other family member were shot in the back of the head, while another victim sustained a shot in the back. Even the family dog, whose legs were found tied up, was shot in the assault. The scene left a stark picture of domestic violence and senseless brutality.
While the scene was marked by unimaginable grief, a small piece of light remains in the narrative of the tragedy. A six-year-old boy was found alive at the location, unharmed.
The investigation has focused on two individuals who have been arrested in connection with the murders. Diego Sebastián “N,” an associate of Meléndez, is accused of being the probable perpetrator, allegedly using his relationship with the victim to gain access to the residence. Gerardo “N” is also under investigation for his alleged involvement.
In the wake of this devastating loss, the community and the music world reacted with sorrow. Camilo Séptimo, the band Meléndez was a part of, released a statement honoring his late colleague. He expressed that Meléndez would be remembered with immense love and gratitude, celebrating his life, his music, and the light he shared with those who knew him.
Meléndez was a key figure in the vibrant Mexican indie scene. Formed in 2013 with vocalist-bassist Manuel Mendoza and guitarist Erik Vázquez, the band built a reputation for their unique sound, influenced by artists such as Devendra Banhart, Arctic Monkeys, and Daft Punk. They released four studio albums: Óleos in 2017, Navegantes in 2019, Ecos in 2022, and most recently, Jardín de las lamas in 2023.
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