Thousands Protest Livestreamed Triple Murder in Buenos Aires

Thousands marched in Buenos Aires demanding justice after the torture and murders of Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo (both 20) and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, whose bodies were found buried in a southern suburb five days after they disappeared. Investigators say the victims were lured into a van on Sept. 19 and killed in a crime tied to a drug gang that was reportedly broadcast on Instagram and viewed by a private group of about 45 people, with a gang leader heard saying, “This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me.” Reports detail horrific abuse — including beatings, suffocation and the removal of fingers and nails — prompting protesters to denounce a “narco-feminicide” and for some demonstrators to clash with police. Authorities say five suspects (three men and two women) have been detained, including an arrest in Villazon, Bolivia, but the alleged 20-year-old Peruvian mastermind remains at large. While families and activists press for accountability and stronger protections for women, Meta has disputed finding evidence that the murders were livestreamed on its platform.